A taxi carrying a passenger was shot at with a metal bearing while driving along Doncaster Road in Wakefield on Monday night, in a shocking and dangerous attack that has sparked concern across the local private hire community.
Fortunately, both the driver and passenger escaped without injury, though they were left “frightened and badly shaken” by the ordeal. The impact caused hundreds of pounds worth of damage to the taxi, with images showing visible dents and broken glass.
Yasa Ahmed, Chair of the Wakefield Drivers Association, condemned the incident and highlighted growing safety concerns among taxi drivers. Speaking to Private Hire and Taxi Monthly (PHTM), he said:
“It’s been reported to the Council and Police, but we need elected members to chase it up — otherwise people won’t do anything about it.”
“And why did the youths only target a taxi?”
He also raised questions about the visibility of door stickers, suggesting they may be making licensed vehicles a target for antisocial behaviour.
“This incident could have seriously hurt the customer and driver,” Mr Ahmed added. “It’s become a public safety issue.”
Local authorities are now being urged to treat the matter with urgency. Wakefield Council and West Yorkshire Police have been notified, though further updates are awaited regarding any investigation or arrests.
The attack has reignited debate over the safety of taxi drivers, particularly in areas where they are more vulnerable to targeted abuse. Calls are growing for better protection for drivers and a review of current vehicle identification practices.
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