Masked Men Rob Southend Taxi Driver of Cash and Sentimental Items

A 76-year-old Southend taxi driver was left shaken after two masked men robbed him of cash and a wallet containing cherished family photos on New Year’s Eve. John Chapman, a veteran driver for Andrews Taxis with over 20 years of experience, described the ordeal as both distressing and unprecedented in his career.

The robbery occurred near Cash Converters on Southchurch Road after Mr. Chapman dropped off the passengers. As he momentarily turned away, the men fled with his black leather bag, which contained approximately £200 in cash and his wallet.

Financial and Emotional Loss

The incident has left Mr. Chapman facing both financial and emotional distress. His stolen bank cards were used to make unauthorized purchases totaling around £100 across various shops in Southend. However, the loss of cherished family photos contained in his wallet has been the most heartbreaking aspect of the robbery.

Mr. Chapman expressed:

"It was a lot of money, but the photos of my mum, who I lost when I was six, and my nan, are the most upsetting thing."

Concerns About Driver Safety

Mr. Chapman admitted he had reservations about picking up the masked men but decided to proceed with the fare.

"This has never happened to me in my 20 years of driving," he shared. "I haven’t had a fare run off in three years, and nowadays, most of my payments are by card."

Rise in Opportunistic Crimes

The robbery has drawn attention to the increasing risks faced by taxi drivers in Southend and across the UK. Mr. Chapman described the culprits as opportunists, noting:

"They must have seen my bag on the seat. I can only blame myself for leaving it there."

Impact on UK Taxi Industry

SOUTHEND CABBIE ROBBED OF CASH AND SENTIMENTAL ITEMS BY MASKED THUGS highlights the vulnerabilities of taxi drivers and the growing prevalence of opportunistic crimes. The incident underscores the need for increased security measures to protect drivers and their livelihoods.