Kenyan Taxi Driver Assaulted in Dubai Pleads to Return Home Amid Safety Fears

By : Mweru Mbugua 

Dubai – Brian Kiplimo’s dream of building a better life in Dubai has turned into a nightmare after a violent attack by a passenger left him injured, stranded, and desperate to return to Kenya

The 26-year-old Kenyan driver, employed by Kabi Taxi Company for just three months, was assaulted on November 8 during what seemed like a routine ride from Dubai Harbour to Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

A viral video capturing the attack shows the passenger suddenly grabbing Kiplimo by the shoulders and neck, causing him to lose control of the taxi

[photo courtesy of Tuko]

The vehicle crashed into a pavement before Kiplimo managed to escape, aided by a passing motorcyclist who helped him contact police and an ambulance

“I did not read any ill motive. I thought maybe he was not comfortable,” Kiplimo recalled. “Then suddenly, he attacked me. I could barely breathe, and I lost control of the car”

He was rushed to Rashid Hospital with a swollen neck and struggled to obtain his medical report due to lack of funds

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Despite repeated pleas, his employer allegedly refused to assist, and Kiplimo faced accusations of absconding from duty a claim that could have serious legal consequences in the UAE

Kiplimo has now appealed to the Kenyan government for help in retrieving his passport, which he says the company has withheld unless he pays a fee

Stranded, broke, and fearful of further harm, he says his priority is to return home to recover and follow up on the case safely

Meanwhile, the assailant remains at large. Authorities are investigating, and CCTV footage shows the man driving off in the stolen taxi after the attack

“I just want to go home, recover, and feel safe,” Kiplimo said