Drivers call for release of arrested drivers, seized taxis

Taxi Drivers Association on Monday condemned the police actions following Wednesday’s protest in Hulhumale and has called for the release of detained drivers and taxis, stating that many of the seized vehicles were not involved in the protest.

The protest was organised to oppose the government’s decision to introduce a government-operated taxi service. During the demonstration, taxi drivers gathered and blocked the Hulhumale highway, which led to arrests and vehicle seizures.

Key events during the protest include:

In a statement, the Taxi Drivers Association rejected the police’s claims that drivers deliberately blocked the roads and disrupted public traffic. The statement clarified that the traffic congestion occurred as a result of taxis simultaneously taking to the streets to end the demonstration. The association also apologised for any inconvenience caused to the public.

“The association urges those involved in the field to act to prevent any such incident from happening again in the future,” the statement read.

The association further noted that several drivers and vehicles were detained without prior notice. It emphasised that many of the towed taxis were not participating in the protest, which has caused significant financial losses to drivers and vehicle owners.

"We call for an immediate end to this act and demand the immediate release of the arrested individuals and towed vehicles,” the statement said, adding that towing taxis without warning or direction to drivers is unjustified.

The statement criticised the government for not addressing the concerns of taxi drivers and failing to provide solutions to ongoing issues within the sector. It also condemned taxi operators who create difficulties for public transportation.

The association reiterated that protests would continue until the arrested drivers and seized taxis are released. It expressed hope that the government would listen to the grievances of taxi drivers.

The government earlier announced plans to launch a taxi line operated by a state-owned company. According to the government, the new taxi service would include vehicles available for day hire and would not negatively impact the existing private taxi drivers.