Man arrested after taxi driver left in ‘state of shock’ when threatened with knife wielding bilker

A man has been arrested after a taxi driver left in a ‘state of shock’ was allegedly threatened with a knife when a passenger refused to pay.

Police were called to Cross Street in Arnold shortly after 12.30am this morning following reports of a disturbance.

Officers quickly arrived and were told a passenger had pulled out a knife after refusing to pay a taxi fare up front. A scuffle ensued but no-one was hurt.

A 22-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of affray and possession of a bladed article.

Superintendent Mike Allen, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “If you carry a knife in a public place without a lawful excuse you are breaking the law and anyone doing so will inevitably find themselves in police custody.

“The taxi driver was in a state of shock when officers arrived and I am pleased that an arrest was swiftly made.

“The 22-year-old man is now being questioned in connection with the incident but I would ask that anyone who witnessed what happened to get in touch with us as soon as possible.

"I'd also like to reassure local residents that the force takes all reports of knife-related offences extremely seriously and to the taxi drivers working in our communities, the force will deal robustly within anyone who puts your safety in jeopardy.

"We understand that incidents like this can be concerning for communities and if you have any concerns please do not hesitate to speak to one of our local officers in the area."

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 39 of 19 June.