A major crackdown on illegal taxis in Bristol saw one driver's licence suspended.
Neighbourhood officers joined forces with a Taxi Compliance PC to carry out checks on 14 vehicles in just one afternoon on Tuesday, January 18 in the city centre area.
One vehicle was found being driven by a person without a taxi licence, resulting in the vehicle licence being immediately suspended. Enquiries are continuing to deal with the related offences.
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Another driver was issued with penalty points for failing to display their taxi licence plates.
Several drivers were given warnings for minor issues and reports have been sent to the licensing authority.
Speaking as part of the operation, Taxi Compilance PC Patrick Quinton said: “Our check on licensed vehicles helps ensure that taking a hackney carriage or booking a private hire vehicle is a safe option for people who rely on taxis, especially the more vulnerable in our community, as well as people on a night out.
“As well as carrying out this type of operation to check on the vehicles’ roadworthiness, we work closely with drivers and the licensing authorities to make sure people can be confident about stepping into their vehicle.”
PC Quinton also works to support drivers if they are themselves victims of crime or anti-social behaviour.
Concerns about a taxi or private hire driver or their vehicle can be reported to Bristol City Council online.
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