Bolt moves to prevent ‘ghost trips’ with new feature

Arusha. Ride-hailing company Bolt has introduced a new measure to tackle fraudulent trips and improving commuter safety in Tanzania.

The move in which a pick-up code will be required before starting a new trip comes after growing concerns over ‘ghost trips’ initiated without passengers on board.

There has been recurring complaints from riders about drivers who start and end journeys without ever picking up the customer—while still collecting digital payments.

“This innovation tackles two key challenges in the ride-hailing sector. First, it addresses the issue of ghost trips where drivers activate rides without passengers. Second, it enhances safety by helping to prevent impersonation and possible abductions through misidentification of drivers,” ” said Bolt’s General Manager for Tanzania and Kenya, Mr Dimmy Kanyankole.

By requiring rider confirmation through the code, the feature aims to match passengers with the correct driver, adding a layer of protection and restoring confidence in the digital ride-hailing system.

“The pick-up code empowers riders, secures digital transactions and strengthens our broader commitment to mobility safety,” Mr Kanyankole added.

He also advised digital payment users to confirm that drivers end trips properly by swiping to close the ride once the destination is reached.

One of the fraudulent incidents involved a commuter from Njiro to Burka in Arusha, Ms Dora Godson who recounted how a driver once initiated a ride without her presence, resulting in an automatic deduction from her account.

“Although I was refunded after reporting the case through the app, it was frustrating to deal with during morning rush hour,” she said.

The system-generated pick-up code must be shared with the driver before a trip begins. The driver cannot start the journey without this code, according to the company.