Tewkesbury private hire driver prosecuted for illegal Cheltenham plying-for-hire activity
A private hire driver has been prosecuted by Tewkesbury Borough Council for unlawfully plying for hire. The case marks a significant step in enforcing regulations designed to protect the public and ensure fair competition within the taxi industry.
Omer Shahzad, 36, pleaded guilty to the offence at a hearing on 9 December 2024. The incident occurred on 13 March 2024, when Shahzad, a licensed private hire driver, was observed picking up a passenger in Cheltenham without a pre-booking in place.
Initially, Shahzad denied the offence during a hearing on 30 September at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court. However, he later changed his plea to guilty. The court imposed a £1,000 fine, a victim surcharge of £400, and awarded £1,000 in costs to Tewkesbury Borough Council.
The case was brought forward by the council’s Licensing team, supported by the Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit and One Legal, a shared legal service operating across multiple councils, including Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud, and Tewkesbury. A complaint from a member of the public prompted the investigation.
Councillor Sarah Hands, Tewkesbury Borough Council’s Lead Member for Environmental Services, said: “Tewkesbury Borough Council is committed to ensuring the safety and legality of private hire services in our community. This successful prosecution sends a clear message that we will not tolerate illegal activity and will take decisive action to protect the public.
“I commend our Licensing team, the Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit, and One Legal for their diligent work in bringing this case to a successful conclusion.”
