Suspected ‘BOGUS TAXI DRIVER’ faces prosecution after police notice Newcastle City Centre dispute
A suspected bogus taxi driver faces prosecution and risks having their car seized thanks to specialist Northumbria Police officers.
Last month, the Operation Cloak team were on patrol in Newcastle city centre when they noticed three women getting into a suspicious looking car parked up in the Bigg Market, in the early hours of the morning.
When police officers approached they could hear raised voices and saw a dispute was ongoing. The women were helped out of the car, and later told officers they believed the driver was not a registered taxi.
Initial enquiries were carried out and as the driver was unable to provide official documentation, the car was seized and taken into police property, rendering it off road.
An investigation was launched and the three women were revisited by officers in the following days so they could provide an account of what had happened.
With the driver unable to provide further documentation to the police, the matter was then referred to Newcastle City Council’s licensing authority which continues to investigate.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said via social media: “As a Force, we have a big footprint in the city centre, with dedicated officers from Operation Cloak carrying out patrols, engaging with people, and identifying anyone who might need assistance.
“Over the years that work has gone from strength to strength, supported by all partners in the night-time economy, from door staff to licensing teams in the Local Authority.
“In recent weeks we have stepped up our approach to identifying and engaging with the drivers of any vehicles which are parked inappropriately outside bars and clubs to ensure that only licensed and registered taxis are in operation – and that those making their way home can do so safely.
“So far that activity has gone down well, with visitors to the city happy to know they are in safe hands.
“This case has now been passed to our partners at Newcastle City Council who will establish whether the individual has the appropriate license to operate in our city.
“We make no apologies for our work in this area, and anyone trying to operate a bogus taxi should be aware they not welcome here.”
