A TAXI driver was tricked into stopping to help someone he thought had fallen off a bike before he was robbed by a group of offenders.

Shortly before 11.40pm on Tuesday, May 4, the victim was driving down Newcastle Road, in Newsham, when he spotted a cyclist who had appeared to have fallen.

When the driver stopped to help, the door to his taxi was opened and two males in dark clothing grabbed his cash bag and tore his clothing while in possession of a suspected bladed article.

The offenders then ran off along Cottingwood Green, along with the cyclist who had jumped up and was back on his bike.

The driver, who was shaken but uninjured, attempted to track their whereabouts but lost sight of them and called 999.

Police are now asking anybody who witnessed anything suspicious in the area or who may have any information to come forward.

PC Michael Hall, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was a cynical robbery as the offenders preyed on the good nature of their victim. The incident could have resulted in serious injury had the blade cut more than just the driver’s clothing.

“We are committed to ensuring those responsible for this appalling robbery are brought to justice, and an experienced team of officers are following various lines of enquiry.

“We are now asking the public to assist us with the investigation. If you saw this incident – or saw a silver Skoda Octavia taxi driving in the area between 11.20pm and 11.50pm - please get in touch with us.

“Your information, however small or insignificant you feel it may be, could prove the key to making sure the offenders responsible are located and put before the courts.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting log 1216 040521 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.