Frustrated taxi drivers in Canterbury are threatening strike following a series of thefts that have went unpunished.
Choni Ahmed, 33, who has been a taxi driver for almost 2 years, lost over £1000 pounds in one night after being robbed on the evening of the 5th of October.
Mr Ahmed said: “At around 10:40, I was about to go to bed when my phone rang and it was someone I frequently cover jobs for, informing me about a driver stuck on the M20 while a customer was going to land at Gatwick.
“I quickly agreed to help and got dressed, then I found out that my taxi had been broken into when I went downstairs,” Choni said.
Police was contacted the next morning, and it was reported that a number of items had been stolen from a car in Woodville Close, Canterbury.
“I’ve been incredibly stressed ever since because I lost my Air Pods, a jacket containing £30-£50 in cash, and a Snap-On diagnostic machine for cars worth approximately £1000, as well as a two-week work hiatus due to the window repair, which costs £199,” said Mr Ahmed.
Mr Ahmed also mentioned another taxi driver’s car has been smashed in and robbed, with a loss of £400 cash, his phone, passport and bank cards several days after.
“I’ve had restless nights since then I promise, I checked my car constantly due to the incident, which made it difficult to perform my daily tasks and caused significant stress,” Choni said.
Drivers are planning to appeal to Canterbury City council for support and assistance.
A Canterbury City Council spokesman said: “We are concerned to hear of some recent incidents, and responsibility for investigating these sits with Kent Police.
“However, we are always available to support our licensed drivers and we are liaising with police colleagues to see if we can assist in any way, to help make drivers feel safe as they go about their important work providing a service to the public.”
A similar encounter a few months ago remains unsolved when Mr Ahmed parked his car on the main road near his house.
“I understand the police are really busy, but these crimes are not small that they are affecting hundreds of families, we want the police to catch the criminals as soon as possible so they don’t do it again,” he said.
Spokesperson from Kent Police said: “an investigation into the thefts are ongoing and anyone with information who has yet to speak to officers should call Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/180088/23.”