The Messenger has had reports of attacks on taxis in the Abbeyfield Road area on the night of Sunday 28th August and the following morning. More than six taxis on Abbeyfield Road alone had their windows smashed, in what is believed by the taxi owners to be a co-ordinated attack.
Despite the attacks, there were no records of the incident according to the police’s Intelligence Unit at Attercliffe Police Station. Martin Bancroft, Police Liaison Officer said: “I urge residents and businesses alike to report crimes to the police by calling 220 2020. This helps to ensure that local policing priorities fully reflect and tackle the problems of our communities.”
Meanwhile the police advise not to leave anything on display in your vehicle and to take personal belongings with you. Alarms and immobilisers are also very good deterrents.
However there is some good news for residents in Burngreave. A project funded by BNDfC aims to assist local businesses (including taxis), voluntary and faith groups by providing grants of up to £35,000 towards security improvements. For example, taxi drivers could apply for a grant towards the installation of CCTV in their vehicles.
If you are based in Burngreave and would like more information on this scheme, contact Martin Bancroft, Police Liaison Officer on 275 8688 or email info@people-united.org.