Yango Drivers Accused of Extortion, Consumer Bodies Demand Action
Zambia’s Yango Taxi Drivers have been accused of extorting money from their customers by demanding higher fares than those displayed and charged by the official Yango system.
The Zambia Consumer Association (ZACA) and the Commuter Rights Association of Zambia (CRAZ) said it had recieved reports from concerned consumers and commuters regarding an illegal trend involving Yango taxi drivers.
In a joint statement issued in Lusaka on Sunday, ZACA Executive Secretary Juba Sakala and CRAZ Chairperson Aaron Kamuti called for Immediate action against overcharging by Yango Drivers.
“It has come to our attention that some Yango drivers are demanding higher fares than those displayed and charged by the official Yango system,” Sakala and Kamuti said.
The duo stated that the practice not only undermines consumer rights but also constitutes extortion, which was a serious violation of the law and the principles of fair business conduct.
They reminded all stakeholders that once a fare was set by the digital platform and accepted by both parties, it becomes a binding agreement.
Sakala and Kamuti stated that any additional or unauthorized charges by the driver were illegal, unethical, and unacceptable.
“We therefore urgently call upon the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) and the owners/operators of Yango Zambia to immediately investigate and put an end to this exploitative practice,” reads their statement.
They stated that Consumers shouldnbe protected from unfair treatment, especially in the growing digital transport sector.
Sakala and Kamuti said those who feel they were making loses can leave the system and revert to their old way of doing business.
“ZACA and CRAZ stand ready to work with regulators, service providers, and consumers to ensure transparency, accountability, and respect for commuter rights,” they said.
