Tunisia Cracks Down on Ride-Hailing Apps Amid Financial Crime Probe

Tunisian authorities have shut down multiple ride-hailing services, including Bolt, as part of an investigation into money laundering and tax evasion. Officials claim these companies were operating without proper licences, using fraudulent permits, and funnelling millions through undeclared bank accounts. So far, 12 million dinars ($4 million) have been seized, and the implicated firms have been removed from Tunisia’s business registry.

While the government has not disclosed the full list of affected platforms, Bolt—one of Tunisia’s most widely used ride-hailing services, particularly in Tunis and Sfax—appears to be a key target. The National Guard’s financial crimes unit led the probe, alleging that private taxi service managers engaged in suspicious financial activities. Their offices have been closed, and all business operations have been suspended indefinitely.

A Transportation Crisis Looms

The crackdown comes at a difficult time for Tunisia’s already struggling public transport system, which has suffered years of underfunding and poor maintenance. Many commuters rely on ride-hailing apps due to unreliable bus and train services, especially in major cities. With Bolt and possibly other apps off the roads, traditional taxis may see a surge in demand, leading to longer wait times and higher fares.

President Kais Saied has frequently addressed corruption within Tunisia’s transport sector, criticising mismanagement in bus and train services. This latest move aligns with his administration’s broader efforts to tackle financial misconduct, though the government has yet to provide detailed evidence of how these companies allegedly laundered money.

For now, it remains unclear how long the suspension will last or what measures companies must take to resume operations. Bolt has yet to release an official statement, but its absence is already creating uncertainty for drivers and passengers alike. As the investigation unfolds, further developments are expected in the coming days.