Licensing Enforcement Officers from Liverpool City Council Licensing carried out a late-night test purchase operation around Anfield Stadium, targeting private hire vehicles (PHVs) suspected of illegally plying for hire.
A statement shared by the council on X, officers approached a total of 27 PHVs during the operation. Of those, 2 drivers accepted fares without a prior booking—an offence under private hire regulations.
Both drivers, licensed by Sefton and Knowsley, are now set to be reported for summons in relation to the offences.
The operation highlights ongoing concerns around illegal street pickups, particularly in high-demand areas like Anfield on busy nights and matchdays.
Drivers Say Problem Is “Rife” Around Matchdays
Following the enforcement action, several drivers reached out to Driver Matty, describing the situation on the ground as far more widespread.
Multiple drivers claimed they had been approached by members of the public offering cash fares—some as high as £40 for a trip into the city centre, despite not having a booking in place.
One driver, who had Manpool Transfers branding displayed on his vehicle, said he was approached while waiting for a legitimate pre-booked airport transfer. He was due to take a passenger to Liverpool Airport, but was still offered a cash job by passers-by. He added that he couldn’t tell whether it was a member of the public or an undercover licensing officer.
These accounts suggest that while enforcement operations are taking place, the demand for off-app, cash-in-hand journeys remains strong in busy areas.
DM News Commentary
This is nothing new around Anfield, but it’s good to see enforcement actually happening.
The reality is simple: when demand spikes, so does the temptation for both drivers and passengers to bypass the system. But accepting cash fares without a booking isn’t just a grey area; it’s illegal for PHVs and can lead to fines, licence suspension, or worse.
What’s more interesting here is the passenger behaviour. Drivers are being actively approached and offered cash, which shows there’s still a lack of understanding (or concern) from the public about how private hire works.
For drivers doing things properly, waiting for pre-booked jobs, running through operators, and staying compliant, it can be frustrating watching others take shortcuts.
Enforcement like this is important, but unless it’s consistent, the issue won’t go away—especially in hotspots like Anfield.
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