A Rochdale based taxi driver who filmed a traffic warden applying a parking fine on his cab following a crash has had the fine revoked by his local council.
In disbelief, hackney taxi driver, Mohammed Arif, captured the moment that the anonymous warden failed to take into consideration the fact he had been involved in a collision and proceeded to fine him for stopping on double yellow lines.
Allegations
The female warden became increasingly agitated that Mr Arif was trying to argue his case. So much so that she attempted to hit his mobile phone out of his hand then called the police – strangely accusing Mr Arif of assault.
Thankfully, Mr Arif’s quick thinking to film the situation allowed him to prove his innocence and after police officers viewed the footage it was agreed that no assault had taken place.
“I could have been arrested for an assault I didn’t commit and be left with a ticket I shouldn’t have.”
The warden resigned from her position after bosses at NSL showed her the video, which has received over one million views on YouTube.
An Apology from the Council
Three weeks after the event took place Mr Arif received an email from the council to apologise for what had happened. Although he was relieved to hear about the positive outcome of his appeal and that the case had been dropped by Greater Manchester Police, he still feels the decision should have been reached earlier considering the evidence.
He said: “The email I have received from the council apologises for any inconvenience caused but I feel like it should never have been happened in the first place.
“They saw the video and have known about the circumstances so why it’s taken so long I don’t know.
“I was quite upset with the warden calling the police on me. I always try to obey the law and I think perhaps some but not all of the wardens need a refresher course on their attitude.
“It could have been very different if I hadn’t recorded what was going on – I could have been arrested for an assault I didn’t commit and be left with a ticket I shouldn’t have. It’s not good enough.”
Refresher Training
Dr Belinda Webb-Blofeld, from NSL, commented generally on complaints: “We take any complaint about wardens seriously and act accordingly. NSL wardens undergo rigorous training prior to going on the street and thereafter receive refresher training as and when necessary.”
Mr Arif has since lodged a formal complaint with Manchester City Council regarding the way the situation was dealt with and awaits a reply.