Coquitlam RCMP taking aim at illegal ride-sharing

The Coquitlam RCMP is looking to crack down on illegal ride-sharing services in the Tri-Cities.

Mounties said Wednesday they are teaming up with B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation to address a number of illegal services.

Authorities say many illegal ride-share companies are operating within the area, with popular ones being “Racoon Go” and “UDI”.

The services, both legal and illegal, have grown in popularity over the past few years, police say.

For a driver to gain a legal “ride-hailing” license they must meet a series of requirements set out by the province, including proper licensing, insurance, vehicle inspections, and a criminal record check.

Mounties say that these requirements are to ensure the safety of the passenger is maintained on their trip.

Police say the goal of this joint initiative with the province is to “educate the public of these ride-hailing companies and provide some safety tips to ensure the customer’s safety.”