Detectives launch investigation into knifepoint robbery on Burnley taxi driver

Detectives have launched an investigation after a taxi driver was robbed at knifepoint in Burnley today.

Police officers were called around 12.40am to Colne Road after a report that a driver had been attacked.

The victim, a man in his 50s, from Nelson, had been called from a withheld number to a fare on Heath Street.

The cabbie picked up a man who started directing him to a number of streets before the driver stopped the car on Earl Street.

The man grabbed the driver around the neck and held a knife to this throat demanding cash. He demanded his money bag, containing £200, before grabbing it and making off from the scene in the direction of Nelson.

The attacker is described as Asian, 5ft 10in tall, wearing a dark coloured hooded jacket, dark coloured scarf covering his nose and mouth and dark coloured trousers.

The victim’s money bag is described as a black and red River Island money bag, with a black strap and red stripe on the side.

Detectives are appealing for information following the incident. Det Insp Joanne Williams, of Burnley CID, said: “This was a shocking and vicious robbery which has left the victim very shaken.

“We would appeal to anyone with information about this attack to come forward.

“Do you recognise the man described, or saw someone in the Heath Street area acting suspiciously between midnight and 12.30am? If so please come forward.”