DOUALA, Cameroon, Jan. 16, 2025 — A Yango taxi driver, allegedly a former player for Dynamo Football Club of Douala, has been accused of stealing an iPhone 16 belonging to a customer. The incident reportedly occurred on the night of Dec. 22, 2024, and has left the victim frustrated after numerous attempts to recover the device.
The Victim’s Account
According to the victim, who shared his story through local media, the events unfolded after he ordered a Yango taxi from Makepe to his residence near Ange Raphaël in Douala. Sitting in the passenger seat, the victim recalled answering a call on his iPhone 16 during the ride and inadvertently dropping the phone in the vehicle.
“When I entered my room, I realized the phone was no longer in my pocket. I called my number using another phone, and the driver answered, claiming he was at Ndokoti and on his way to return it. Since then, he has blocked me on all platforms,” the victim stated.
The driver, identified as Ngapout Mouliom Mohamed, has allegedly not responded to further attempts to contact him.
Community Reactions and Rising Concerns
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents and Yango users, who are calling for stricter regulations and accountability for ride-hailing drivers. The victim’s public appeal has also raised questions about the security and vetting processes for drivers operating within the popular platform.
Unfortunate Trend?
Cases of alleged theft by taxi and ride-hailing drivers have been reported in Douala and other cities, raising concerns about passenger safety and trust in ride-hailing services. While most drivers adhere to professional standards, incidents like this highlight the need for better oversight and quick resolution mechanisms for disputes.
Yango’s Role and Responsibility
As of now, it is unclear if the victim has reported the incident directly to Yango. Ride-hailing platforms typically have protocols to address customer complaints and ensure accountability. Public attention may put pressure on Yango to investigate the matter and take corrective action.
The Bigger Picture
The story of the missing iPhone 16 is not just about a stolen device; it reflects broader concerns about accountability and trust in emerging transportation services. Users and platforms alike must work together to ensure safety, transparency, and professionalism in the industry.
For now, the victim continues his search for justice, hoping his public appeal will lead to the recovery of his phone and the accountability of the driver involved.
