A suspected fake taxi driver is facing prosecution and risks having his car seized after attempting late night pick-ups in Newcastle’s Bigg Market.

The suspected bogus driver was parked at the popular city centre nightlife spot in the early hours of the morning last month when Northumbria Police officers noticed three women getting into his ‘suspicious looking’ car.

Officers reported hearing raised voices from the vehicles and saw a dispute was ongoing. The women were helped out of the car and told officers they believed the driver was not a registered taxi.

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The driver was unable to provide official documentation and the car was seized by police.

An investigation was launched and Newcastle Council’s licensing authority, which hands out taxi licenses in the city, was brought in when the driver couldn’t provide further documentation.

The Northern Echo: Police officers on patrol in Newcastle's busy Bigg MarketPolice officers on patrol in Newcastle's busy Bigg Market (Image: NORTHUMBRIA POLICE)

It comes ahead of the busy festive season when drinkers will be looking to make their way home safely from boozy nights out.

Northumbria Police Neighbourhood Inspector Karen Madge it was imperative the Force continues to identify and remove any illegal or bogus taxis from the night-time economy.

She said: “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.

“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.

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“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 are not welcome here.”

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."

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