A late-night taxi enforcement operation in Walsall has uncovered a series of serious safety breaches, including the use of illegal 'ghost plates' and prohibited window tints.
Operation Details and Findings
The joint operation took place in Walsall town centre between 8pm and 1am on November 28 last year. Officers from Walsall Council, City of Wolverhampton Council, and West Midlands Police traffic officers conducted checks on sixteen vehicles.
While half of the taxis passed all routine compliance checks, the other half required what authorities described as 'immediate action' to safeguard the public. The issues discovered were varied and significant.
Vehicles Suspended and Penalties Issued
One taxi was immediately suspended from service after being found with a bald tyre. The suspension was lifted later that same evening once the tyre was replaced, but the driver still received penalty points.
A second vehicle was suspended for missing mandatory identification and safety equipment. This suspension was also lifted once the required items were provided to officers.
Perhaps the most concerning discovery was a taxi using illegal 'ghost plates'. This vehicle was suspended and ordered to return only with legal number plates and after resolving other identified issues.
Furthermore, two drivers received penalty points for having illegally tinted windows. Several other vehicles were found with missing safety equipment, but these issues were rectified on the spot without the need for suspension.
Council Commitment to Public Safety
Councillor Adam Hicken, Walsall's portfolio holder for enforcement and safe communities, emphasised the council's stance. “Passenger safety is our absolute priority,” he stated. “Operations like this are about making sure licensed vehicles meet the standards people expect when they get into a taxi in Walsall.”
He acknowledged that most vehicles were compliant but was clear that action will always follow when problems are found. The council pledged to continue working with neighbouring authorities and the police to maintain high standards.
A spokesperson for City of Wolverhampton Council echoed this commitment, stating: “We take our licensing responsibilities seriously... This includes cracking down on taxis using 'ghost plates' which are illegal.” They confirmed support for further compliance operations in Walsall.
