Taxi rank security calls after driver robbed TAXI drivers are calling for more security at railway stations in the borough to keep them safe while at work.
The drivers, who are mainly based at Weybridge station, want more security cameras to face the rank in a bid to deter crime.
A meeting was called earlier this month following an incident where a man was arrested and accused of robbing a taxi driver in Weybridge.
He was later charged with robbery and possession of a firearm or imitation firearm and is due to appear in court today (Thursday).
According to Elmbridge Borough Council, this could lead to extra security measures being introduced for drivers.
Taxi driver Jawved Siddique said there were cameras already at Weybridge station but these did not face the rank, which has caused some concern among drivers.
He said: “Having the cameras means if there is a problem with a passenger in the car further down the road, we can follow it up afterwards as they will be captured on camera.
“If there is trouble with alcohol-related crime, too – we think the cameras will deter people.
“We have asked the council to release funds to pay for the cameras.”
His colleague, Javed Anwar, added: “A lot of the time people are fine and then in the middle of the journey they can start misbehaving. If there was a camera at the station or if they could move one of the cameras slightly towards the rank, then it would be a help.
“If they have the budget, another camera would be best.”
A meeting has already taken place with representatives from the council, Surrey Police and drivers about the situation, including discussion on existing CCTV cameras at the station and the possible installation of others.
According to a council spokesman, the discussions were ‘very productive’ and the matter will be on the agenda for the licensing committee meeting on September 17.
Councillor Ian Donaldson said: “We are looking into all aspects of safety for taxi drivers – not only cameras at the stations and CCTV in the borough but we are planning on looking into other forms of security for the taxi drivers, too.
“Drivers seem to be getting a lot of abuse and we can’t have that.”
A spokesman for South West Trains, which is responsible for Weybridge station, said the current CCTV cameras covered areas that needed to be covered, such as the ticket machines.
“It is not something we are looking to do but we have spoken to the taxi drivers about their concerns,” the spokesman added.
http://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/s/21196 ... ver_robbed
Login
Register
FAQ
