This witters on a bit, and seems like more of an excuse for official PR than what the article is really all about.
But looks like the women clocked that the car was not legit, thus makes a change from the more usual reported scenario
Suspected bogus taxi driver caught in Bigg Market in Newcastle after three women raised alarm
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/no ... e-25597555
Three women raised the alarm after officers noticed them engaged in dispute with the driver
A suspected bogus taxi driver faces prosecution after three women raised the alarm that he was operating without registration in Newcastle City Centre.
Last month, officers from Northumbria Police noticed three women getting into a suspicious looking car parked up in the Bigg Market, in the early hours of the morning.
The officers present said they could hear raised voices upon their approach and saw that a dispute was ongoing. The women were subsequently helped out of the car, and later told the officers they believed the driver was not a registered taxi.
Initial enquiries were carried out and as the driver was unable to provide official documentation, the car was seized by police.
An Investigation was launched and the three women were revisited by officers in the following days so they could provide account of what had happened.
With the driver unable to provide further documentation to police, the matter was then referred to Newcastle City Council’s licensing authority which continues to investigate.
Neighbourhood Inspector Karen Madge, of Northumbria Police, who leads Operation Cloak, said it was imperative the Force continues to identify and remove any illegal or bogus taxis from the night-time economy.
“Women should be free to come to Newcastle and enjoy all it has to offer without ever feeling unsafe, harassed or intimidated, especially when they are trying to get home,” she said.
“As a Force, we have a big footprint in the city centre, with dedicated officers from Operation Cloak carrying out patrols, engaging with people, and identifying anyone who might need assistance.
“Over the years that work has gone from strength to strength, supported by all partners in the night-time economy, from door staff to licensing teams in the Local Authority.
“In recent weeks we have stepped up our approach to identifying and engaging with the drivers of any vehicles which are parked inappropriately outside bars and clubs to ensure that only licensed and registered taxis are in operation – and that those making their way home can do so safely.
“So far that activity has gone down well, with visitors to the city happy to know they are in safe hands.
“This case has now been passed to our partners at Newcastle City Council who will establish whether the individual has the appropriate license to operate in our city. We make no apologies for our work in this area, and anyone trying to operate a bogus taxi should be aware they not welcome here.”
First launched in 2019 in Newcastle city centre, Operation Cloak sees dedicated uniformed and plain-clothed officers placed in busy areas looking for signs someone may be vulnerable or in need of help and identifying people who may be out to commit offences. While it is a police-led initiative, partners in the local authority, licensees, door supervisors, hotel staff and taxi drivers, work together to help ensure people can enjoy a night out in a safe and friendly environment.
Cllr Alex Hay, Newcastle City Council Cabinet member for a Resilient City, said: “Newcastle has a vibrant nightlife, which is something we are proud of, and it’s really important everyone gets home from their night out safely. In this case neither the vehicle nor the driver will have been subject to stringent licensing authority vetting processes.
“The unlicensed vehicle may be in an unroadworthy condition and aside from the illegal activity, the insurance for the vehicle will also be invalid.
“Only Newcastle City Council licensed hackney carriages are able to pick up in the city without pre-booking.
“We conduct frequent regular enforcement in the night time economy to ensure that licensed drivers comply with legal requirements and that fleet standards are maintained.
“Alongside Northumbria Police we will continue to monitor this activity and take swift action where illegal activity is identified."
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, added: “I think this swift action from Operation Cloak officers makes it very clear that bogus taxi drivers are certainly not welcome, and won’t be tolerated in Newcastle.
“If and when it does happen our police will act and hold those responsible to account. Women should be able to go out and have fun without fear. We shouldn’t have to worry or question that a taxi we’re getting in might not be genuine or might not be safe.
“This is just one example of dedicated operations that are happening to keep people safe on a night-time. From more patrols to more vulnerability training – we will continue to build on all the work that’s happening to keep people safe as we head into Christmas party season.”