A number of taxi companies and independent cabbies have today (Tuesday) said they will no longer serve Newport taxi ranks after midnight on a Friday or Saturday following an assault in the town over the weekend.
Alpha Cars; AK Taxis; Thompson’s Taxis; Amar Taxis; 24-7 Taxis and numerous independent drivers have all said that they will no longer pick up fares from ranks/clubs in Newport after midnight on a Friday or Saturday starting this weekend, Friday 15th April.
Companies, who are apologising for any inconvenience, say they will still be accepting pre-booked telephone bookings.
The decisions have been made in deep support of 3 of their colleagues who were attacked during the early hours of Sunday morning. After having something thrown at his car, one taxi driver got out of his vehicle to take a look before being verbally assaulted by a group. The situation escalated and ended with 3 taxi drivers being physically assaulted.
Detective Inspector John Stirling of Newport CID has today said:
“This was a nasty attack on the taxi drivers and we won’t tolerate this sort of behaviour. I’d like to assure people we are thoroughly investigating this incident.
“We’re aware that there have been lots of comments on social media about what happened and that some phone video footage has been posted of it. We’d like whoever it was who recorded the incident on their phone to get in touch with us as it’s important evidence that could help make sure those responsible are brought to justice
“I’d also ask people to refrain from posting comments about the incident on social media at this stage but if people think they have important information it we’d like them to contact us direct so it can be properly assessed.”
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Superintendent Sarah Jackson added:
“We are working closely with local taxi drivers and our partner organisations to address any safety concerns the drivers may have.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police on 101 quoting 44160135589.
