In a harrowing incident that has sent shockwaves through South Africa, popular digital content creator Simthande Myeza was abducted at gunpoint on June 17, 2025, shortly after boarding a vehicle arranged through the ride-hailing service, Bolt.

The kidnapping took place in the Umbilo area in Durban, raising significant concerns over the safety protocols of such services.

Contacted for comment, Lerato Motsoeneng, Senior General Manager for Bolt South Africa, expressed deep concern over the incident.

“We are aware of the incident currently being shared online involving a rider, Simthande Myeza, who reportedly experienced a deeply disturbing situation while using our platform,” she said.

“We want to express our sincere concern and sympathy. We are committed to handling this matter with the utmost seriousness and will fully support the relevant authorities in addressing it.”

Motsoeneng further indicated that the company’s safety team had already reached out to Myeza to gather more information and to better understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“While we are still in the process of verifying the trip information, we remain committed to engaging all parties to ensure the matter is thoroughly addressed. The safety of our community is our highest priority,” she stated.

The abduction has reignited public scrutiny regarding the safety measures implemented by ride-hailing services, with calls emerging for Bolt’s cancellation or shutdown in South Africa.

Prominent radio personality Anele Mdoda added her voice to the outcry on social media platform X.

She re-shared a statement from Myeza’s family, without words, punctuating her emotions with an angry face emoji, reflecting the widespread anger among the public.

Mdoda herself has had a frightening experience with ride-hailing services.

Back in February, she described a tense encounter with an Uber driver, claiming he became aggressive after she selected the “don’t talk to me” option.

“In my country, we would assault you to teach you a lesson,” the driver allegedly told her, illustrating the dangerous situations passengers can face.

The conversation on X following Mdoda’s post highlighted the growing fear regarding ride-hailing services.

Users echoed similar sentiments with comments such as: @SoberPanAfrika stating, “@boltapp needs to be shut down in SA,” while @NxeleN added, “Delete @boltapp.This is the most dangerous app you can have installed.”

Concerns only amplified with @Driza84 questioning, “Too many scary stories from Bolt.. why is @GovernmentZA not doing anything about this company?”

Myeza is safe and currently recovering from the ordeal with the support of friends and family. 

With the investigation into the Myeza abduction under way, Bolt has reiterated its commitment to cooperating with the authorities to promote safety on its platform.

As the public awaits further developments on the case, the broader implications for ride-hailing safety remain a pressing topic of discussion.

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