Man Jailed 30 Years for Violently Targeting E-Hailing Drivers in Pretoria
A 39-year-old man who preyed on e-hailing drivers in Eersterust, Pretoria, has been sentenced to 30 years behind bars.
Kamar Davids was sentenced in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Monday after being convicted on two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The court heard that Davids and an accomplice used e-hailing platforms to lure drivers before violently attacking and robbing them.
Two Brutal Incidents in November 2023
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the first incident occurred on the evening of 14 November 2023.
Davids and his accomplice requested an e-hailing ride in Eersterust. When the driver arrived, the two men entered the vehicle, pointed a firearm at him, assaulted him and robbed him of his belongings before fleeing.
Just two days later, the pair struck again using the same method.
“Upon the driver’s arrival, the pair entered the vehicle and violently attacked him, striking him with a firearm and holding a knife to his throat while robbing him of his belongings,” said NPA spokesperson Tshegofatso Makhudu.
During the second robbery, police officers who were patrolling the area approached the vehicle. The suspects fled on foot, but officers managed to apprehend Davids.
He has remained in custody since his arrest after the NPA successfully opposed his bail application.
Conviction and Court Findings
Davids pleaded not guilty during the trial and denied committing the offences.
However, prosecutor Marsche Louw presented evidence including testimony from both victims, which the court found proved his guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
In court, Louw argued that violent crimes targeting e-hailing drivers had become increasingly common, leaving many drivers unable to work safely.
She stressed that the victims were fortunate to have escaped with only minor injuries and told the court that society expected a strong message to be sent to would-be offenders.
No Leniency from the Court
In sentencing, the magistrate noted the alarming rise in robberies targeting e-hailing drivers.
The court emphasised that the victims were lawfully earning a living when they were ambushed, assaulted and robbed. It further observed that the attacks involved not only threats but actual physical violence, infringing on the victims’ rights to safety and security.
The magistrate found that no substantial and compelling circumstances existed to justify deviating from the prescribed minimum sentences for robbery with aggravating circumstances.
Davids was sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Growing Concern Over Attacks on E-Hailing Drivers
The case highlights ongoing concerns about the vulnerability of e-hailing drivers, who are often targeted by criminals posing as passengers.
Authorities have repeatedly warned drivers to remain vigilant and to report suspicious ride requests.
With this sentence, the court signalled a firm stance against violent crimes targeting individuals simply trying to earn a living.
