OUT-OF-AREA WARNING: Two local taxi drivers help catch and convict drivers illegally plying-for-hire outside train station
A man has been convicted of illegally ‘plying for hire’ after being caught and challenged by two licensed taxi drivers outside Crewe railway station.
Majid Mahmood, 43, was approached by a customer seeking a ride in February, after first speaking to the two legal drivers present outside the station.
Despite being warned that he was operating unlawfully, Mahmood refused to relinquish the fare and sped off with the passenger onboard.
At Crewe Magistrates' Court on 15 October, he pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay £546 in fines, victim surcharge, and legal costs.
This marks the second recent prosecution for illegal taxi operations in Cheshire East, following a similar case in August.
Councillor Mick Warren, chair of the council’s environment and communities committee, stressed the importance of public safety. He reminded residents to ensure they book licensed taxis, identifiable by the Cheshire East licence plates displayed on the front and rear of approved vehicles.
Councillor Mick Warren said: “I sincerely hope that this sends out a very clear message that we will not tolerate drivers illegally collecting fares in our borough.
“There’s also another very important message here on public safety. If you need to book a taxi in the borough, you will always be better served looking for a vehicle that has been licensed to work in the borough. Any vehicle licensed by Cheshire East Council displays a Cheshire East licence plate on the front and rear of the vehicle."
