Bolt Nigeria set to ban drivers who solicit offline trips

Bolt Nigeria has announced its decision to suspend the accounts of drivers engaging in offline trip solicitations to bolster the safety and security of riders. The company disclosed this information in a statement to Technext, unveiling a new feature in its app allowing riders to cancel trips specifically when drivers request payment off the app.

The initiative aims to discourage users from resorting to offline transactions, reinforcing safety measures for both drivers and riders. The Country Manager of Bolt Nigeria, Yahaya Mohammed, emphasized the importance of online transactions to maintain critical safety features like GPS tracking and SOS coverage. The newly introduced cancellation option empowers riders to respond promptly to situations where drivers demand payments beyond the app’s agreed-upon fare or encourage trip cancellations to go offline.

Mohammed highlighted the potential risks associated with offline trips, underlining the vulnerability of users without access to in-app safety tools. He emphasized that Bolt is dedicated to providing a secure platform and outlined measures, including temporary bans and account suspensions, to address drivers consistently involved in soliciting offline trips.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by drivers due to increased fuel prices and inflation impacting their earnings, Mohammed reiterated Bolt’s commitment to offering a secure and reliable ride-hailing experience. The introduction of the cancellation feature underscores this commitment, providing riders with a tool to prioritize their safety and well-being.

The rise in offline trips, triggered by drivers seeking alternative ways to cope with economic challenges, has prompted Bolt to take proactive steps in addressing the issue. Despite the economic pressures on drivers, Bolt aims to curb the trend by empowering riders to report and prevent offline transactions, thereby ensuring the continued effectiveness of safety measures on their platform.