Uber resumes service at Sandton Gautrain station after violent attack

Uber South Africa has resumed its service around the Gautrain station in Sandton after a violent attack on one of its driver partners‚ a passenger and the Johannesburg Metro Police — but is advising people wanting to book a ride to take extra precautions.

“Please note that you will be able to request trips in the Sandton Gautrain area again‚” Uber South Africa ?@Uber–RSA said via Twitter on Friday night.

“We ask that you arrange with your driver to be picked up/dropped off inside at the station and remain vigilant at all times.”

The service was suspended earlier on Friday after the attack outside the Gautrain station at about midday‚ outside the Sandton Gautrain station‚ on West Street.

According to eye-witnesses‚ an Uber driver was collecting a client next to a Gautrain station when he was attacked by four meter taxi drivers.

The Uber vehicle was pelted with stones and its windows and front bumper were also damaged

The driver and a passenger managed to escape unharmed.

But when police officers arrived at the scene‚ they were shot at and assaulted with stones‚ Emer-G-Med paramedics said.

“Three police officers and two drivers were injured‚ fortunately sustaining only minor injuries. Two vehicles were badly damaged during the situation‚” the emergency service said in a statement. “They were treated on-scene before being transported to various nearby hospitals for further treatment.”

Metro police spokesperson Wayne Minnaar confirmed three officers were injured and added that one of their vehicles was also damaged during the altercation.

After the attack‚ Uber SA said it was taking the necessary steps to resolve the intimidation as soon as possible. “We are working with private security‚ JMPD (metro police)‚ SAPS‚ Gautrain and all other relevant stakeholders as we’re deeply committed to rider and driver safety. Driver partners have access to an emergency line in the event that they feel unsafe in any way.”