PickMe writes to police chief

Sri Lanka ride-hailing company PickMe says it has sought police protection and even-handed law enforcement for drivers after gangs of tuk-tuk drivers assaulted and intimidated drivers on its app to stop competition in some tourist hotspots.

“The company’s letter follows a series of disturbing incidents in Ella and other tourist-sensitive areas, where independent drivers using digital platforms have reportedly faced physical assault, property damage, and unlawful obstruction of public roads,” Picke Me said in a statement.

“Several of these incidents were captured on video and circulated widely online.”

The three-wheeler drivers were resorting to violence to protect themselves from competition from Pick Me drivers, who are offering better rates.