Council takes firm action against local taxi firm who OVERCHARGED disabled passenger nearly 40% more than others
Rossendale Borough Council has taken firm action against a local taxi operator, Connections Taxis, after uncovering evidence of discriminatory pricing practices. The case centred on the overcharging of a disabled passenger, revealed through a detailed investigation by the Council’s Licensing and Enforcement Office.
The probe was triggered by a complaint in September 2023, alleging unfair charges. Investigators found that a wheelchair user was charged significantly more than able-bodied passengers for similar journeys.
One instance saw the passenger charged £8 for a 0.5-mile trip, a fare that should have been £3.50. Thirty minutes earlier, the same driver charged an able-bodied passenger £4.50 for a 2.1-mile journey. In another example, the wheelchair user was charged £12 for a 2.7-mile trip, nearly 40% above the standard £8.50 fare. The return journey was also billed at £12.
The investigation confirmed that able-bodied passengers were consistently charged the correct fares, exposing discriminatory treatment of disabled customers. The Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee revoked the licences of both the private hire operator and the driver involved.
In December 2024, Mohsen Saddique, 31, the manager responsible for fare setting, admitted to overcharging at Blackburn Magistrates’ Court. Saddique was fined £636, which included a £110 victim surcharge.
Rossendale Borough Council has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring fair treatment for all passengers and holding operators accountable for any discriminatory practices.
Cllr Adrian Lythgoe, Lead Member for Environment and Corporate Services, said: "This case highlights our commitment to ensuring equality and fairness for all members of our community, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
“Overcharging disabled passengers is not only illegal but entirely unacceptable. The outcome of this investigation sends a clear message to all operators and drivers that discriminatory practices will not be tolerated. We thank the complainant for coming forward and would encourage others to report any similar concerns."
