BVTM: Raid against Uber partner reveals an abyss

But the criminal swamp is a bitter reality. The chief executive of the Federal Association of Taxi and Rental Cars, Michael Oppermann, is appalled. "The raid brings uncanny things to light: those who get into Uber may be getting into a vehicle of organized crime," Oppermann commented on the situation.

The numbers are impressive: 150 law enforcement officers, almost 50 searched properties in 4 federal states, around 2 million euros in unpaid taxes and social security contributions, and at the end, more than 100 cars seized. This is reported by the Hessen public prosecutor's office after the raid, which was preceded by months of investigations. The specific allegations: particularly severe illegal employment, particularly severe tax evasion, and gang-related forgery.

For the Federal Association of Taxi and Car Rental, none of this comes as a complete surprise:

"It is known that criminals use the Uber platform to conduct their businesses. The platform provides the best conditions for this. The case highlights the extent this criminal swamp has now reached. It must be drained with full determination—immediately," declares Oppermann.

He criticizes that the masterminds are difficult for the authorities to apprehend. The law needs to be tightened because the authorities must be able to access the platforms' data to catch the criminals in the Uber environment.

"We have made corresponding proposals," Oppermann continues. "The federal legislature is now required to amend the Passenger Transportation Act. The current version makes it too easy for illegal ride services and too difficult for the authorities; this cannot remain so."