Taxi driver assaultled after house party

The driver, 35, collected the passengers in Houghton Regis at about 11.30pm and was asked to take them to Old Bedford Road.

During the journey the passengers changed the destination several times, eventually asking to be dropped off in Old Bedford Road at the junction of Westbury Avenue.

The passengers paid the driver and left the vehicle but one of the customers returned to the taxi and demanded his money back.

The driver got out of the car to speak with the group and was assaulted.

One of the group also took the victim’s cash bag which contained the night’s takings, medication and an AA card.

The whole group then left the scene along Old Bedford Road, towards Barnfield College.

Det Con Mandy Godfree said: “Taxi drivers do a great job helping to keep the public safe while they are out and about. We value the service they provide within the town and we all need to take responsibility for ensuring their safety. They deserve to be able to go about their business safely and I need to trace anyone who can help identify the men responsible for this incident so we can stop this type of violent behaviour.

“Bedfordshire Police is dedicated to bringing these offenders to justice and if you were at the house party in Tithe Farm Road and can help identify those involved in this crime, if you were at the party and ordered a taxi from 515151 United Cars, if you were in the taxi but were not involved in the robbery, or if you were in Old Bedford Road on Saturday night and witnessed the incident, I would urge you to contact the police. Anyone with information can speak with officers, in complete confidence.”

The first offender is described as a black man, 5’5” tall with a slim build, short hair and wearing a shirt, jeans and training shoes.

The second offender is described as a black man with a light complexion, aged 20 - 22 years old, 5’2” tall with a thin build, very short black hair and clean shaven.

The third and fourth offenders are described two men of mixed race appearance, possibly brothers, approximately 25 years old, wearing jeans, a smart shirt and trainers.

The others in the group are all described as black men between 16 – 30 years of age.

The officer in charge of this investigation, Detective Constable Mandy Godfree, is keen to trace anyone who has information relating to this offence.

Call Det Con Godfree in confidence on 01582 394443 or text 07786 200011 with information.