Taxi checks prompts warnings and a suspension during Swansea Freshers Week operation
- Perry Richardson
- 28 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Police and local councils joined forces last weekend to carry out taxi safety checks in Swansea during the busy Freshers Week period.
Operation Nepsara was run by the Swansea and Neath Port Talbot Police Licensing Team with support from Swansea Council’s Taxi Licensing Team. The aim was to ensure drivers were licensed and vehicles were safe to operate.
The checks were part of a wider effort and took place alongside Operation Night Owl, a Safer Roads initiative. Colleagues from Neath Port Talbot Council, Newport City Council, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency and immigration officers also took part.
Across the evening, 30 vehicles were inspected at a dedicated site, while a further 22 were stopped and checked on the road by the Safer Roads Team.
From those inspected, three taxis received warnings for defects including low tyre tread and faulty lights. Four taxis were issued Stop Notices, with drivers required to replace tyres or fix issues before continuing work. One vehicle was taken off the road completely due to a broken and dangerous suspension.
Officials said the operation was designed to protect both drivers and passengers, particularly at a time when demand for taxis increases with the arrival of new students.
Sergeant James Ponting said: “Ensuring that our city centre taxis are safe and have all the required licensing is of the utmost importance at any time of year, but this is particularly important during events like Freshers Week, when we expect a larger number of people to be using taxis.
“Operations such as Op Nepsara are vital in ensuring that taxi operators are adhering to these important safety guidelines.”
Andrew Williams, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, said: “We are proud to welcome and host multi-agency operations here in Swansea. These collaborative efforts are vital to ensuring public safety, particularly within the night-time economy.
“It is essential that members of the public can trust the taxis and private hire vehicles they use, and that both vehicles and drivers are fit for purpose. Protecting vulnerable individuals and enabling safe travel to and from our city remains a top priority for Swansea Council.”
