A 26-year-old man from Aberbargoed has been fined more than £700 after admitting to operating an illegal taxi service.
Nicholas Morris, of Commercial Street, Aberbargoed, was prosecuted as a result of a joint operation between Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Trading Standards team and Gwent Police after receiving a number of complaints from legitimate taxi drivers.
The 26-year-old was known to operate in the Bargoed High Street area, and was caught when he transported undercover officers from Bargoed to Aberbargoed, charging a £5 fee.
Morris pleaded guilty to three charges relating to illegal taxi driving at Newport Magistrates’ Court on Friday, September 23.
He was ordered to pay a total of £767.07 in fines and costs to Caerphilly County Borough Council, as well as receiving six penalty points on his licence.
Cllr Nigel George, Cabinet Member for Community and Leisure Services said: “I urge residents to ensure that any taxi services they use are licensed, particularly in the run up to Christmas, as this is the only way to ensure that the driver and vehicle have received the proper checks and carry the correct insurance.
“Those who drive illegal taxis are potentially putting people at risk and anyone considering operating an illegal taxi service should reconsider, as this could lead to a ban from driving.”
Bargoed Inspector, Ian Muirhead said: “I hope this penalty sends a clear message to those thinking of acting in this way that Gwent Police along with local authorities will endeavour to identify and prosecute any such behaviour.
“People are more frequently using social media to publicise what they describe as ‘lifts’ but what they are providing is illegal, unlicensed taxi services which are totally unregulated.”
He continued: “I’d like to remind members of the public who are using illegal taxis to take a moment to consider what they are doing.
“The taxi trade go through rigorous checks, their vehicle also has to pass additional tests to a standard MOT before they are road legal. Importantly, if you were involved in an car accident – the car will most probably not be covered for business insurance.”