#### Joint Crackdown Catches 14 Private Hire Drivers Accepting Unbooked Passengers in Northampton

A successful targeted operation

In a targeted operation by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Northamptonshire Police, fourteen private hire drivers were found to be illegally accepting passengers without prior bookings. Conducted on the evening of October 11, the operation responded to rising intelligence reports of unauthorized private hire activity and unlicensed vehicles in Northampton town centre.

Undercover officers, including Special Constables, Safer Roads Team members, and WNC staff, posed as potential passengers. They approached private hire vehicles and inquired if drivers were available for immediate hire. When drivers agreed and began the journey, officers revealed their identity, identifying those breaching regulations.

Unlike hackney carriages, which are licensed to accept flagged-down passengers, private hire vehicles are legally required to pick up only pre-booked fares. Violations not only infringe licensing rules but also render drivers’ insurance invalid, increasing risks to passengers.

What officials had to say

"Working in partnership with Northamptonshire Police, we identified drivers who were operating illegally," said the Deputy Leader of WNC. "Each case will now be reviewed to determine the most appropriate action on their private hire licenses."

Northamptonshire Police's PC Maureen Allsopp-Clarke emphasized the operation’s role in public safety. "Ensuring private hire vehicles adhere to booking regulations protects the public, particularly vulnerable individuals who might otherwise fall prey to unlicensed drivers," she stated.

This operation marks a continued effort by local authorities to uphold transportation regulations, safeguarding Northampton’s night-time economy and reducing risks associated with illegal private hire activities.