Police appeal for witnesses after knifepoint robbery leaves Batley taxi driver shaken

Detectives in Batley are urging witnesses to come forward after a taxi driver was robbed.

The incident occurred at around 3.25am on 25 April near Fry Dayz Fisheries on The Parade. The Kirklees District Crime Team is appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the event or has new information to aid their investigation.

A Cleckheaton man has been arrested on suspicion of robbery and released on police bail, but officers are keen to hear from the public.

The suspect is described as a white male in his 20s, of medium build, dressed in black, and with noticeable scars on his face. He was reportedly seen on Manor Way, The Parade, or Maythorne Avenue shortly before the assault.

Residents in nearby areas, including Hazel Grove, Lime Tree Avenue, Hawthorne Avenue, Ashmead, Pine Grove, and Chestnut Avenue, are asked to check their CCTV for any footage of the suspect. The police are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who recognises the individual fitting this description.

Police sources say the robbery took place when a Toyota Prius taxi, which had been ordered to the location, arrived. The suspect entered the vehicle, threatened the driver with a knife, and assaulted him before escaping with cash and personal belongings. The driver, while shaken, was unharmed.

Police urge anyone with information or footage to contact them to assist in their investigation.