More than 20 taxis damaged in street rampage
TAXI drivers have spoken of their shock after vandals caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.
More than 20 taxis are believed to have been targeted during the early hours spree on Russia Street and Swiss Street in Accrington.
The offenders smashed windows on the cars including Volkswagens, Toyotas and Skodas and also searched around inside the vehicles for valuables and money.
Talib Zaman, owner of Max Cabs, said 15 of his cars were damaged and they were ‘struggling’ to meet job requests.
He said: “About 22 cars have been smashed overnight and about 15 of those are ours.
“They are new cars and to replace the window will cost about £130. People can see the plates on the back and know they are taxis.
“They might think there is change or dispatch equipment or sat navs.
“Luckily the drivers haven’t had anything stolen, just the windows damaged. We are struggling to cover the jobs and what’s happened is affecting us.”
Sajjad Younas, 47, of Russia Street, said it is ‘very upsetting’.
He said: “I found out about 6am when one of the lads living further down called me. I’m very mad about it. What was the point of doing it? A similar thing happened a few years ago.
“I’ve been told my insurance doesn’t cover it because it’s vandalism so it’s going to cost me £270 to replace the window.
“It’s a hell of a lot of money and I’ve only had the car 12 months. My glove compartment was open so maybe they were looking for money.”
Ibrahim Altaf, of Swiss Street, said: “We could hear all the alarms going off but we didn’t hear the smash. I think they have been after any change and phones left in the car. We’ve never had anything like this before.”
The incidents took place in the early hours of Thursday, August 4.
PC Vicky Heys, community beat manager for the area, said: “There’s been a large number of taxis damaged in that area of Accrington overnight.
“More than 15 vehicles were targeted in the Countess Street area.
“We are appealing for any information and would advise vehicle owners to make sure they are secured and no valuables are left overnight.”
Call police on 101 quoting log number 211 of August 4.