Gardai have arrested four people after an alleged hijacking and serious assault of a taxi driver in Dublin.
The incident occurred at approximately 12.30am at Rutland Grove, Crumlin.
It’s understood the taxi driver was overpowered and seriously assaulted by a group of youths after driving them from the City Centre.
His mobile phone along with a sum of cash and dash cam were also taken during the incident.
The taxi driver, a 59-year-old man, was taken to St James’s Hospital by Ambulance for treatment to serious head and facial injuries.
Responding to the incident units from Sundrive and Crumlin Garda Stations arrested two males and two females, all aged in their late teens and early 20s, on Sundrive Road a short time later.
They are currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 for questioning at Sundrive Road, Crumlin and Rathmines Garda Stations.
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A scene of the incident and the taxi have been examined by scenes of crime officers and enquires are ongoing.
The taxi driver is continuing to recover in hospital, his injuries are not thought to be life threatening.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information to contact Sundrive Road Garda Station on 01-6666600 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.
A spokesperson for a group representing Dublin Taxi Drivers told Dublin Live that something needs to be done before a driver is killed.
They said: "Gardaí and NTA joined forces to ensure safety on public transport but that doesn't include taxis.
"They need to do more for taxi drivers. The situation is getting out of control.
"Very soon, a lot of drivers will give up night work and you wouldn’t blame them."
They added: "There has been plenty of attacks lately and it seems like the culprits are getting away scot-free.
"We need to introduce a law similar to the one in New York. The 'Taxi and Livery Driver protection Act' means assaulting a driver is punishable by up to 25 years in prison."
