South Yorkshire Police have been working closely together with local taxi drivers and taxi trade representatives in a bid to reduce crime against cabbies in Rotherham over the Christmas and New Year period.
Alcohol Abuse
Previous experience shows that over-indulgence during the festive period is unfortunately linked to a rise in anti-social behaviour towards taxi drivers.
Chief Inspector Richard Butterworth said: “The police will not tolerate criminal offences or antisocial behaviour against hackney carriage taxi and private hire drivers and we’re working hard to bring the full weight of the law against those who wish to cause problems for those going about their business.
“It is always a minority who cause problems as the vast majority of people respect the service that is offered and are grateful to be able to call a hackney carriage taxi or private hire after a night out in the town.
“We’re working closely with drivers’ representatives to ensure that they enjoy a safe working environment.”
Police Presence
Extra police officers have been on patrol during busy periods over Christmas and this wil continue at New Year. The increased street presence is designed both to ensure that taxi drivers are kept as safe as possible and that members of the public are guided home quickly and safely after their night out.
Mr Sajid Bostan, vice chairman of the Rotherham Private Hire Drivers Association, said it was a minority of people who subject drivers to abuse.
“It’s this minority that spoils it for everyone. Hackney carriage taxis and private hire firms are keen to work with the police to ensure drivers are safe during the festive period and beyond,” commented Mr. Bostan.
“We want everyone to have a good time and the drivers provide a valuable service to the town and Rotherham area.”
The police force is also be cracking down on drink driving and has been advising everyone to use taxis or other forms of public transport.