Lancashire Police stopped and inspected 254 taxis over the weekend as part of a large-scale safety campaign. The checks took place on Friday, October 2, and Saturday, October 3.
Multi-agency operation
Officers from Lancashire Constabulary's Roads Policing Unit worked alongside licensing officers from nine local authorities: Knowsley Council, Preston, Blackburn with Darwen, Pendle, South Ribble, Chorley, Sefton, Blackpool, and Wolverhampton.
Taxis across Preston, Chorley, and Blackpool were searched. During the operation, 26 traffic offences were identified and dealt with, including illegal tyres and defective lights. Two Section 23 Misuse of Drugs Act searches were also carried out on passengers.
NightSafe campaign
The campaign focused on identifying unlicensed drivers and ensuring legitimate taxi services are operating safely and in line with regulations. The operation is part of the police's ongoing NightSafe campaign, which aims to keep the county's night-time economy safe, welcoming, and well-regulated.
High-visibility checkpoints were set up at key locations across Preston and Chorley. Officers carried out detailed inspections, checking for mechanical faults and safety requirements such as tyres, brakes, lights, and seatbelts.
Sergeant Ben Elliott from the Roads Policing Unit said: "These operations are all about protecting the public and ensuring people can travel safely when enjoying Lancashire's nightlife.
"The overwhelming majority of taxi drivers are professional, conscientious and committed to keeping their passengers safe.
"By carrying out targeted checks like these, we can identify those who are not meeting the required standards, deal with any offences and help maintain public confidence in the taxi trade.
"Working closely with our local authority partners allows us to take a robust approach to enforcement while supporting those drivers and operators who are doing the right thing."
