GUILTY: Driver banned and fined after illegal taxi operation uncovered at Henley Regatta

A 67-year-old driver has been banned from driving and fined after being caught offering illegal taxi services during Henley Regatta, one of the busiest events in South Oxfordshire’s calendar. The case was heard at Oxford Magistrates’ Court on Friday 12 December, following an investigation by South Oxfordshire District Council licensing officers.

Mr Arshed Abdul Aziz pleaded guilty to unlawfully plying for hire in Henley on 5 July 2025. He also admitted failing to have the required motor insurance and failing to wear his council-issued driver identification badge while operating.

Council officers conducting routine compliance checks during the regatta observed Mr Aziz’s vehicle displaying an illuminated taxi roof sign, indicating it was available for hire. The presence of the sign prompted officers to carry out a test purchase to establish whether the vehicle was operating lawfully within the district.

During the test purchase, Mr Aziz quoted a fare which officers later described as inflated. He subsequently admitted that he had no pre-booked journey in Henley at the time, a requirement for drivers licensed outside South Oxfordshire who wish to pick up passengers within the district.

South Oxfordshire District Council has taken enforcement action against a driver caught unlawfully plying for hire during Henley Regatta, reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance on illegal taxi activity

Further investigations confirmed that Mr Aziz was uninsured for the journey and not licensed to accept walk-up fares in South Oxfordshire. Drivers licensed by other authorities are only permitted to collect passengers in the district if the journey has been pre-booked through a licensed operator.

Magistrates imposed a £336 fine, alongside a £96 victim surcharge and £935 in prosecution costs, bringing the total financial penalty to £1,271. Mr Aziz was also disqualified from driving for six months and referred to his home licensing authority to consider further action in relation to his taxi licences.

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South Oxfordshire District Council said the case highlights the risks posed by illegal taxi operations, particularly during major events. The authority reiterated that drivers caught touting for business or accepting walk-up fares without the correct authorisation face prosecution and could receive fines of up to £2,500, a driving ban and the potential loss of their licence.

Cllr Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “Henley Regatta attracts thousands of visitors each year and their safety is our top priority. Unlawful taxi activity puts passengers at serious risk – journeys are untraceable, uninsured and often overpriced. We will not tolerate illegal taxis plying for hire in South Oxfordshire and will take robust action to protect the public.”