Court revokes private hire driver's licence over safety concerns

A private hire driver, Mohammed Badrul Alam, has had his licence revoked after a court found him unfit to hold a licence. The decision, upheld by Northampton Crown Court on 14 February 2025, confirmed West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) ruling to revoke his private hire licence. Alam was also ordered to pay £1,640 in costs after misleading the council about legal proceedings against him in another area. Cases of private hire drivers facing penalties for safety violations are not uncommon, as seen when another private hire driver was fined £1,000 and banned for tyre violations.

Conviction and Safety Concerns

Alam, from Luton, failed to inform the council of his prosecution and conviction for plying for hire—illegally accepting passengers without a pre-booking—and driving without insurance. His driving record included multiple complaints, with one passenger reporting an incident where Alam drove at 100mph, causing them to call their family in fear.

Court Ruling and Financial Penalties

Initially, the Magistrates’ Court upheld the council’s decision, but Alam appealed to the Crown Court. Judge Lucking ruled against him, finding his explanation unconvincing. Alam was ordered to pay 1,500 pounds in costs for the Crown Court case, in addition to 140 pounds from the Magistrates’ Court appeal.

Council Response

Councillor Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader, emphasized the council’s commitment to public safety:

“The safety of residents and passengers who use private-hire and taxi services is paramount to us, and the majority of drivers conduct themselves to the highest standards.”