Overview

• The Akha app, often referred to as the 'Waze for fare evaders,' allows users to report and locate transit inspectors in real-time across public transportation networks.
• Île-de-France Mobilités, led by Valérie Pécresse, has filed a legal complaint against the app, citing violations of French transport laws prohibiting the dissemination of inspector locations.
• Akha has been removed from Google's Play Store but remains available on Apple's App Store, with its creator denying intent to facilitate illegal activities.
• The app has been downloaded over 130,000 times and also allows users to report delays, safety concerns, and other transit issues, though inspector alerts dominate its use.
• French law stipulates penalties of up to two months in prison and a €3,750 fine for signaling the presence of transit inspectors, but legal experts suggest a prolonged legal battle could follow.