A VIDEO circulating on social media shows a Bolt driver being robbed while picking up a passenger in Lotus River.
The video, which appeared on the Cape Flats Stories Facebook page is understood to have been recorded on Klip Road shortly after midday on 28 July 2026.
The Cape Argus has viewed the footage. It shows the driver stopping to collect a passenger who had requested a ride through the Bolt app.
Seconds after getting into the vehicle, the passenger reaches across the driver and snatches his cellphone, saying, “Gee jou phone, jy”, before the sound cuts out.
As the driver tries to stop him, a second man appears at the driver’s window, with a third man keeping tabs. The second man reaches into the vehicle.
The second man demands the driver’s hoodie, as the passenger grabs the man’s phone, his power cables and wallet, leaving the shaken driver to drive off.
The video has since been shared widely on social media.
The robbery has again raised questions about the safety of e-hailing drivers, who often respond to ride requests without knowing who is waiting for them.
Police spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala confirmed that SAPS has opened a case of robbery.
Gwala reported: “Grassy Park police are investigating a case of robbery with a firearm following an incident that occurred at Klip Road in Lotus River on Tuesday, 28 July 2026.
“According to reports, a 25-year-old male victim responded to a ride request at the mentioned road.
“On arrival, he was threatened with a firearm and was robbed of his cellphone and black hoodie by unknown male suspects.
“Anyone with information that could assist with the investigation is kindly requested to contact Grassy Park detectives on 021 700 3900 or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.”
Bolt has also been asked to comment on the incident, what support has been offered to the driver and what safety measures are in place to protect drivers using the platform.
The story will be updated once responses are received.