Amid hostage incident, Uber quadruples prices in Sydney before company relents

Source: CNet

Update: After widespread concern on social media today, Uber Sydney has announced rides would be free for passengers leaving the CBD at this time.

Update: Uber is also in the process of refunding customers who were charged for using the service during this period. A spokesperson said "We are in the process of refunding rides. If you have been charged during these hours leaving the CBD please email supportsydney@uber.com. Please note that surge pricing only remains in place to encourage more drivers to come online and pick up passengers from the area."

Uber fares peaked at four times the usual rate in the centre of Sydney today, as the city's CBD faces a lockdown amidst a developing hostage situation.

... Uber Sydney released the following statement on Twitter: "We are all concerned with events in CBD. Fares have increased to encourage more drivers to come online & pick up passengers in the area."

Read more: http://www.cnet.com/news/uber-reaches-4x-surge-pricing-as-sydney-faces-hostage-lockdown/