If we look at LTA’s regulations, the driver has failed to comply with the rules of inward facing cameras. In this scenario, the driver recorded a video of an ongoing dispute between the rider and himself. However, LTA’s guidelines indicate that public service vehicles must obtain LTA’s approval to install inward facing cameras. Even audio recording functions are not allowed to prevent the passenger’s conversations from being recorded. 

In my humble opinion, these rules seem fair from a rider’s point of view as it protects their privacy. But if we look at it from a different angle, the very same rules are not in favor of drivers. If drivers are not allowed to have any form of audio or video recording devices, it will be disadvantageous for the driver if anything were to turn sour. Looking at this dispute between the driver and rider, one can only imagine what would happen if the driver did not have a video recording. It is the rider’s words against his, without any concrete evidence. Furthermore, the law and officials look at concrete evidence before making decisions as these cannot be made purely based on assumptions and accusations.

All in all, I feel that what the driver did was necessary as he had to protect himself from accusations and prove that he did not have any intentions of ‘kidnapping’. If the nature and rule of law in Singapore is to prescribe and enforce rights and obligations in a fair manner, perhaps it’s time for LTA’s regulations to be amended to protect the interest of drivers too.