Illegal Richmond ride-sharing drivers fined over $10,000: RCMP

The Richmond RCMP says five more drivers have been charged and fined as its undercover investigation into illegal ride-sharing operations continues.

In June, Mounties conducted a “targeted enforcement” to identify and stop approximately six unlicensed ride-hailing drivers who they say use unauthorized apps to operate throughout B.C.

In a release Friday, police say they have stopped five more drivers and charges have been approved including operating without a business licence, driving without a driver’s licence, and failure to display a valid certificate.

Corp. Adriana O’Malley tells 1130 NewsRadio that officers used “unauthorized ride-hailing apps” to book rides with unlicensed drivers and then apprehended the drivers upon pickup.

“These illegal operators bypass necessary background checks and safety protocols mandated by the province. Which pose a significant risk to public safety,” said O’Malley.

“Ride-hailing services have to have vehicle inspections. Drivers have to have criminal record checks, they have to have a class for a driver’s licence. These necessary precautions are all being put in place or regulations are in place for the safety of the end users. So by failing to use properly regulated services, you are putting yourself at risk.”

She says a total of over $ 11,500 in fines were issued for the five new drivers — or an average of $2,300.

“This amount does not include the costs for vehicle towing and storage, which applied to three repeat offenders,” said O’Malley.

—With files from Charlie Carey.