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Posted on the 31st January 2025 in PHTM News
DUNDEE CABBIE, 47, FEARS WEEKEND NIGHTS AFTER STRING OF ATTACKS
A Dundee taxi driver has revealed he's too afraid to work weekend nights due to a surge in physical abuse from intoxicated passengers.
Andy Sturrock, 47, a driver for City Cabs 450450, recounts a litany of assaults over his 12-year career, including being struck with a bottle, punched, spat upon, and having his vehicle vandalised.
"The problem is getting worse with taxi drivers being fair game for passengers – many of whom are under the influence of drink or drugs when they lash out at us," Sturrock explained.
He now avoids Friday and Saturday nights altogether, citing the escalating danger. "The situation is now so bad I will not work nights at the weekends – it’s too dangerous.”
He also noted the concerning trend of daytime assaults due to the rise of day clubs.
Sturrock's experiences are not isolated. Chris Elder, a union representative with Unite the Union, which represents some Dundee drivers, confirmed the prevalence of such incidents. "Many of our members regularly report attacks and abuse and anti-social behaviour," Elder stated.
He himself was the victim of an attempted robbery while driving. "It’s pretty scary to be in a cab with someone who is lashing out at you."
Unite the Union is spearheading a campaign, with the support of Dundee City Council and Police Scotland, to combat the abuse of cab drivers. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the issue and secure local authority support.
Peter Marr of City Cabs 450450 highlighted additional challenges faced by drivers, including verbal abuse, often of a racist nature, and attempted robberies. "Verbal abuse, including racist comments, happens all the time and there are also reports of drivers being attacked by someone trying to rob them," Marr said. He also revealed that the company maintains a list of addresses known to be problematic, which drivers avoid.
Police Constable Matthew Simpson expressed his support for the campaign, emphasising that violence and abuse against taxi drivers will not be tolerated. "Everyone has the right to go to work and carry out their duties without fear of being subjected to violence, abuse or intimidation," Constable Simpson said. "Such behaviour is not tolerated. Where offences are reported, officers will investigate and take appropriate action when offenders are identified.”
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