Just a couple of days after police raided Uber’s Hong Kong offices, a petition to “Keep Hong Kong Moving” has already amassed nearly 40,000 signatures.
“As you may have heard, police visited Uber’s offices in Hong Kong this week and took two interns into custody. Seven Uber driver-partners were pulled over as well. We’re glad to report they have all been released and are safe at home. A huge thanks to the thousands of you who have emailed us, posted on social media, and otherwise voiced your support. Your UberLove has been tremendous!” says Uber.
On August 11th, Hong Kong police arrested a handful of Uber drivers for “illegal use of vehicles for hire,” according to Reuters.
According to officials, undercover cops used the Uber app to call five cars, and once they reached their destinations they arrested the drivers.
Police also searched Uber’s local offices and seized documents and computers.
Honk Kong, like many cities around the world, has seen protests from local taxi drivers who claim that Uber operates outside the law, failing to obtain permits and proper licensing.
In some places, those protests have turned violent. In Honk Kong, angry taxi drivers recently smashed a red taxi in a symbolic gesture.
“We’re committed to providing Hongkongers with the safe, reliable, and quality transportation options they deserve. We welcome the opportunity to work with the HK government to modernize regulations in order to accommodate technologies that help make Hong Kong a more livable city,” says Uber.
“Around the world, Uber is working with governments to achieve a common goal that creates safe, reliable, and efficient transportation options supported by reasonable, consumer-friendly regulations. We look forward to meeting with the Transport and Housing Bureau, other government bodies, and legislators to discuss how we can work together to encourage innovation and create a better Hong Kong for residents, tourists, and business travelers.”