The sleek and speedy world of ride-hailing is under a cloud in Azerbaijan, where a corruption scandal has hit Bolt's operations hard. Drivers and fleet owners blew the whistle directly to the company's Estonian HQ, pointing fingers at systemic bribery and power abuse by local management. Bold accusations of selective treatment and misconduct have put Bolt in the global spotlight.
In response to the uproar, Bolt launched a thorough audit of its Baku office's financial and managerial moves. The probe led to the swift dismissal of the country head, Naim Azizov, along with several others. A secretive system was uncovered – drivers were mysteriously blocked from the platform, but relief magically appeared through intermediaries... for a price.
“The alleged corruption reeked of a well-oiled machine, with bribery being the lubricant that kept it running,” one observer noted.
Documents allegedly tangled in fake errors suddenly cleared up after payments, while advertising bonuses were a game of who could pay to play. Even access to prime ride categories, like airport pickups, seemed reserved for those with connections.
As allegations surfaced, the stakes rose. Complainants faced phone calls pressuring them to retract their claims. Some stood firm, but many wilted under the pressure, deepening suspicions of intimidation tactics. One fleet owner, ready to present incriminating evidence, is willing to take his fight to the top – even if it means heading to Estonia.
Bolt wasn't silent amid the chaos. The company acknowledged the management shakeup, balancing it within their compliance strategy. "Changes have been made in the leadership in Azerbaijan, but our operations remain unaffected," declared Bolt. They reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to any misconduct, urging transparency and integrity.
Bolt's commitment to fair play continues as they call on drivers to report concerns through official channels. The company is keen to maintain its operations in Azerbaijan on a transparent and lawful footing, promising not just a ride, but a ride with integrity.