Recently there have been a lot rumors and stories in the media about regular ojek drivers threatening drivers working for up-and-coming motorcycle taxi service Go-Jek, as well as Go-Jek passengers, who dare to come near ojek hangout spots.
Supposedly, Go-Jek’s recent rise in popularity has caused numerous incidences of conflict and aggression to flare up, with traditional ojeks angered by the upstart company’s intrusion into their territory. There have even been numerous reports of Go-Jek drivers removing their distinctive green jackets and helmets in order to avoid harassment and attacks by other ojek drivers.
Now the head of the Jakarta Police is stepping into the conflict, saying the police will protect Go-Jek drivers from violence and warning traditional ojeks not to act against them.
“I implore ojek drivers to restrain themselves [from violence], we the police will protect anyone from violence and unlawfulness. If there are violations of the law, we will act assertively,” said Jakarta Police Chief Tito Karnavian at City Hall today, as quoted by Metro TV.
Tito believes that ojek drivers should improve their services instead of targeting others.
“I don’t think [ojek drivers] should be worried [about the presence of Go-Jek]. The market in Jakarta is huge. The population of Jakarta is more than 10 million, so don’t be afraid to lose the market [share]. What’s important is the quality of service,” he said.
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