Two more Uber drivers arrested in Hong Kong as local taxi drivers prepare to launch rival service
Taxi drivers prepare to launch rival service to successful car-hailing app while police chief does not rule out the possibility of further action
As the battle for control of the city's roads plays out, it emerged the police joined a meeting during which there were calls for the arrest of unlicensed drivers. Pro-taxi lawmakers, taxi lobby representatives and Transport Department officials were also present.
Police had acted on allegations Uber drivers were using cars without permits and proper insurance.
The move is linked to the company's rapid expansion to add private-car owners to its roster, after originally using limousine-licensed companies.
Eight men have been released on bail, pending further investigation.
Traditional taxi drivers are now in the advanced stages of launching a platform to rival Uber, promising improved services and newer cars. Many commuters are fed up with daily abuses by taxi drivers, such as price gouging during bad weather and refusing fares unless the destination suits them.
