CABBIES WARNED: Prolific and aggressive bilker targets London taxi drivers

Image credit: TAXI Newspaper

A prolific and aggressive serial fare-dodger continues to evade payment in the capital leaving taxi drivers out of pocket, says taxi representatives.

The Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) has issued a warning following numerous reports of a man who has consistently bilked drivers across central London.

The individual, described as having a London accent and a friendly demeanour, has been linked to incidents starting from key pick-up points such as Marylebone and Kings Cross. His routine destinations often include the Pimlico Road, Holbein Place, and Ebury Bridge Road areas, with Lister Hospital being a favoured drop-off point. Here, the man typically requests drivers to wait while he allegedly attends to various tasks, such as collecting medical supplies or picking up an online order.

However, instead of returning to pay the fare, he slips away through the hospital's back entrance, leaving drivers without payment. The LTDA has collated dozens of reports, revealing a pattern that is causing growing concern within the taxi community.

An LTDA spokesperson said in TAXI Newspaper: “On the occasions where he [the bilker] has been identified or challenged, he gets aggressive, pulls out his phone and starts filming and will then allegedly accuse the driver of racism.

“Worse still, from stories we've been told, with female cabbies he has reportedly refused to leave the cab, tried to gain access to the driver’s area, became aggressive, intimidating and threatened violence. He needs catching and stopping!”

This individual’s repeated actions have sparked calls for vigilance among taxi drivers. The LTDA is urging drivers to be cautious and report any encounters with the man to help prevent further incidents.