Colchester taxi driver left fearing for his life after violent attack

The driver, who wants to remain anonymous, was called to the Greenstead area to pick up a male and female passenger on Saturday at about 11.25pm.

He claims they both got into the rear of the car before the journey got underway.

During the trip, the taxi driver claims the woman explained she needed to go to Asda but later changed her mind and wanted to go to Roman Road off East Hill. 

Taxis in Colchester High Street (Image: Newsquest)

He agreed to continue the journey and as he turned towards the destination, the driver asked what payment method they wanted to use. 

The taxi driver said: “As the car slowed down, I noticed the woman was trying the door to get out, but the child locks were activated. 

“As she was unable to exit, both of them then fought to get through the front seat gap to escape. 

“She opened the front door. I reached out to push her out while the man in the back had hold of my jacket and was throwing punches to my head. 

“I managed to break free and get out of the car. 

“As the male got out, he was attacking me, and shouting 'give me your money'.

"I could see the woman then leaning into the passenger side taking money from my centre console.

“I managed to get in the car and sped off with all the doors open, I then stopped up the road to catch my breath and to see if I had been stabbed as I was hurting.” 

The driver, who has worked in Colchester for 16 years, said he has been left very shaken. 

He added: “I am still very nervous. This is such a dangerous job, picking people up in the early hours, some people are unpredictable. 

“I was hit several times to the back of the head which left me dazed and I am still suffering. 

“At the time of the attack, I was expecting the worst, especially if I had ended up on the ground. I knew I had to get away. 

“I was shaking uncontrollably.”

Essex Police have now launched an investigation.

A spokesman for the police said: "We are investigating a robbery which was reported to us shortly before 11.30pm on June 3.

“A taxi driver reported he was assaulted in the area of Castle Road, Colchester, and a two-figure some of cash was taken.

“Thankfully, his injuries were not deemed to be life-threatening or life-changing, though he has understandably been left shaken.

“We are supporting the victim and our investigation into this incident is progressing quickly.

“Anyone with information which may assist our enquiries is asked to get in touch.

"You can call us on 101. Please quote incident number 1556 of 03 June."