A disturbing video circulating online has ignited public anger in Kenya after it appeared to show a taxi driver assaulting a woman he was meant to take home safely.
The woman, who was visibly intoxicated, had reportedly hired the driver late at night. Instead of ensuring she arrived safely, the man was caught on video sexually assaulting her. The footage was recorded by a neighbor, who later informed the woman’s partner.
When confronted, the driver at first denied any wrongdoing. He was later seen attempting to dress the woman, before claiming that she had “begged for sex.” His words, captured on camera, only deepened public outrage.
The case has struck a raw nerve in a country where women have long voiced fears about harassment and violence when travelling at night. Stories of taxi drivers preying on vulnerable passengers sometimes demanding sex instead of fare, or worse, abducting victims are not new.
It is definitely clear that while mobile ride-hailing apps have improved safety in some ways, gaps remain. Drivers are not always properly vetted and cases of assault often go unreported due to stigma or fear of retaliation.
Women’s groups are now calling for tougher rules on taxi services, including stricter background checks, clearer reporting channels and accountability measures.
It is not clear whether any legal action has been taken against the driver yet.
Women are being urged to remain cautious when travelling at night. Common advice includes sticking with trusted friends, using verified ride services, sharing trip details with contacts and trusting personal instincts if a situation feels unsafe.
For many, however, the video is a painful reminder that the burden of safety too often falls on women themselves while those meant to provide protection sometimes turn into predators.
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