Seven cars seized in Derry in illegal taxi crackdown

The operation involving police and the DVA was carried out last week in Londonderry

Seven vehicles have been seized by police in Londonderry as part of a crackdown on illegal taxis operating in the city.

The vehicles were seized between 26 and 28 June by officers working in conjunction with Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) transport enforcement, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said.

Seven people will be reported to the Public Prosecution Service in relation to illegal driving, police added.

“Illegal taxis present a risk to anyone who uses them,” PSNI Sgt Stewart said.

The officer said illegal taxis are often uninsured and drivers have not completed the required safety checks.

Sgt Stewart added: “Police and partner agencies will continue to apply measures to make sure every taxi on our roads is safe and is driven by an insured, licensed driver and operated through a reputable taxi business”.

Police are urging taxi operators to ensure drivers display proper plates and carry the required documentation while passengers are being reminded they should also check for plates and driver identification.

The PSNI has asked anyone with information about illegal taxis to come forward.