CROSS-BORDER CRACKDOWN: Nearly 200 cabs stopped as police uncover dangerous defects and offences
- Perry Richardson
- 25 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Almost 200 taxis were stopped and inspected during a coordinated enforcement operation across Preston, Chorley and South Ribble, resulting in multiple vehicle suspensions and traffic offences being identified.
The operation, led by Lancashire Constabulary’s Roads Policing Unit and Neighbourhood Policing Teams, took place on Saturday 14 March 2026 and involved licensing officers from Preston City Council, South Ribble Council, Sefton Council, Knowsley Council, Blackburn with Darwen Council and Wolverhampton Council.
A total of 198 licensed vehicles were examined at checkpoints set up across key locations in the three areas. The inspections focused on vehicle safety, licensing compliance and identifying unlicensed or unlawful activity within the taxi and private hire sector.
Authorities confirmed that 12 taxis were suspended from service after being found with dangerous defects. Issues identified during the checks included illegal tyre tread depth and faulty lighting, both of which present safety risks to passengers and other road users.
Operation involving police and multiple councils leads to suspensions and enforcement action over safety breaches
In addition to vehicle compliance checks, officers dealt with a number of wider offences during the operation. A man who is not a licensed taxi driver was arrested on suspicion of drink driving, while two searches were carried out under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act.
More than 50 passengers were also engaged during the enforcement activity, with officers providing safety advice and reassurance around the checks being carried out. Police said passengers were broadly supportive of the initiative and its focus on public safety.
Sgt Ben Elliott from the Roads Policing Unit said: “Our priority is making sure that everyone who heads out to enjoy their night in Preston, Chorley or South Ribble can do so safely, and that includes getting home.
“This operation brought together multiple agencies to ensure people are kept safe, that taxis are properly licensed, roadworthy and driven by people who meet the standards expected of them.
“By working together, we’re giving the public confidence that the vehicle they step into at the end of the night is safe, legal and responsible and we will continue operations like this one so that those enjoying a night out can do so safely.”
