On the evening of March 10, an app taxi driver in Quito faced a terrifying ordeal when he was the victim of an express kidnapping orchestrated by three individuals who falsely requested a ride. The driver was led to believe he was transporting a sick passenger to a hospital, but upon reaching Llano Chico, the situation escalated when the supposed passenger refused to pay for the fare. At this moment, the driver was ambushed by two additional accomplices who forcibly entered the vehicle.

The kidnappers restrained the driver and threatened him with firearms, demanding that he hand over his car, cellphone, and wallet. After a harrowing experience, the driver was eventually abandoned in a neighborhood in northern Quito. This incident highlights the ongoing security issues in the city, particularly concerning app-based transportation services where drivers are vulnerable to such criminal acts.

According to Patricio Armendáriz, the commander of the Metropolitan Police District of Quito, the quick response of law enforcement led to the arrest of two suspects involved in this express kidnapping. The police are continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend the third individual involved, emphasizing the need for increased safety measures for app drivers and passengers alike in the region.