Oakland police warn of increase in crimes against rideshare, delivery riders

Oakland police alerted the public to a series of crimes targeting rideshare drivers, reporting three robberies and attempted carjackings in the area of 46th Avenue and Foothill Boulevard after 9 p. m. Thieves typically deceive drivers by claiming there are issues with their vehicles, prompting them to stop before attempting to rob or steal the car. Authorities have arrested two juveniles in connection with two of the incidents and are actively seeking a third suspect. Officers urged rideshare and delivery drivers to remain vigilant and adopt safety measures, including placing GPS tags in their vehicles and installing dash cameras.

The alarming rise in these crimes poses significant risks for rideshare drivers in Oakland, highlighting a pressing need for enhanced safety precautions. Police emphasize that drivers should steer clear of unsafe stops and seek well-lit, populated areas. The OPD Robbery Section encourages anyone with information about these incidents to reach out. This trend underscores the growing risks associated with rideshare services in urban environments.