Fake taxi reports prompt Wrexham Council and police to issue warning advice

Wrexham Police, along with the council, are investigating reports of a fake taxi operating in the Wrexham area and are warning people to take care when using taxis. As first reported in the Wrexham.Com, over the weekend local reports circulated on social media about concern over a vehicle operating in the Wrexham area as a bogus or fake taxi.
Wrexham Council have issued a warning this afternoon: “We’re warning people to take care when using taxis following reports of a bogus driver out there. Police are aware and are investigating. "We spoke with Inspector Vic Powell at Wrexham police station this afternoon, he told us: “We are actively looking for the vehicle and we are working with our local authority partner on this. “I would encourage everybody when they book a taxi it comes from a registered licensed taxi firm, and that the vehicle is displaying the relevant licence plates, and all the information and the driver ID on display, if you dont see that do not get in and call us. “Don’t get into any vehicle that you are not entirely satisfied with.” Wrexham Council added: “The only way that a private hire vehicle is legitimate if it is licensed by the Council and is pre-booked through a private hire company.
“It is illegal for a private hire vehicle to accept custom after being hailed down in the street. Only Wrexham licensed Hackney Carriages (‘Black cabs’) are allowed to ‘ply for hire’ for business in the street.
“The Licensing Section, in partnership with North Wales Police, work actively to combat unlicensed taxis and any report of such activity should be reported to them immediately.”
To enjoy a safe journey, here are some helpful tips: PRE BOOK- Plan ahead and always pre-book through a licensed operator, alternatively use one of the Hackney ranks in the town centre.
CHECK THE DETAILS- Ask for details of the car when making the booking and make sure that the driver knows the destination and the name it was booked under, when it arrives.
CHECK THE PLATES- Make sure that the vehicle is plated with private hire licence plates on the front and rear of the vehicle. Private hire plates are white, Hackney plates are purple and on the rear only.
ASK FOR ID- Ask to see the driver’s ID badge. He or she is obliged to wear this badge in such a manner as to be distinctly visible. There is no reason a driver should refuse to show this to the customer and they must have it in their possession to carry out licensed journeys. Do not give any personal details to the driver, other than what is needed to get to the destination.
If you suspect that someone is acting as an unlicensed taxi, you can report this to the Licensing Section of Wrexham Council on 01978 315786, alternatively contact the Police on 101. Both the police and council noted that such reports can remain anonymous if you wish.
Image: Source; Pixabay