Unlicensed private hire driver caught carrying passengers in Avon and Somerset dispatched by Wales-based operator
- Perry Richardson
- 5 minutes ago
- 1 min read
An unlicensed private hire driver has been caught transporting passengers in a vehicle dispatched by a Wales-based operator, prompting an investigation by North Somerset Council and Avon and Somerset Police.
The discovery was made by PC Patrick Quinton, the region’s dedicated taxi enforcement officer, during a multi-agency operation with DVSA and licensing teams from South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. The joint exercise saw 59 vehicles stopped and inspected for compliance with licensing and safety regulations.
Among those stopped, one private hire vehicle was found to be operated by a driver who did not hold a valid licence. The driver was carrying passengers at the time and had been sent the job by an operator outside the area. PC Quinton confirmed that the operator was licensed in Wales.
PC Quinton said work is already underway to investigate the case, with the aim of prosecuting the Welsh operator responsible for dispatching the job to an unlicensed driver. However, he warned that the legal process may take months or even years to conclude.
The driver has been reported and enforcement action is expected. North Somerset Council is leading the investigation into the operator, with further details to be released when available.
This case adds to mounting pressure on central government to review how private hire operators and drivers are regulated, particularly in cases involving out-of-area working arrangements.
