Maidstone taxi passenger injured following taxi dispute

Kent Police are searching for a taxi driver following allegations from a passenger who claims he was subjected to threats and kept inside the vehicle against his will.

The victim and two friends collected a taxi in King Street, Maidstone at around 12.30am on Saturday 24 August.

Police say that it was reported they made a joke to the driver, following which he reacted by driving erratically and going through a red light. The car, described as a large black Ford with a sliding door, later stopped on the A20 at the junction with Hermitage Lane in Aylesford. However, after two of the passengers exited, the vehicle is said to have been driven away at speed with the victim still inside. It is alleged the driver then made threats to the man, who went on to jump out of the vehicle as it was moving and sustained a number of injuries. Officers have carried out a number of enquiries, including contacting local taxi firms and reviewing CCTV, and are now issuing an image of a man they would like to speak to. Detective Constable Lynda Birch, of West Kent CID, said: “It is important we speak to this man, who may have important information to help us establish the full circumstances. “Whilst the only image we have of him does not show the front of his face there is still a good chance that someone may recognise him or his clothing. If you can help please call our appeals line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/163015/19.” 

Image credit: Kent Police