Taxi Cab Robbery Investigations

(BRUCE PENINSULA, ON) – The Bruce Peninsula Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) wish to advise local taxi companies and citizens of robberies of taxi cab operators in the County of Brant and Oxford County. The OPP detachments in these counties continue to investigate Robbery crimes against taxi cab operators which started on December 20, 2012. St Thomas Police Service is also assisting as a similar incident has occurred in the City of St Thomas.

On Sunday January 6, 2013 at approximately 3:15 a.m. Red Line Taxi was called for a fare at the Waterworks Park, St. Thomas. When the driver arrived she was approached by two masked males and was assaulted. The crime was interrupted by a second taxi operator attending the area.

On Wednesday January 2, 2013 at approximately 12:34 a.m. the Grand River Taxi Co. Paris was called to the Paris Golf Course for a fare. Upon arrival the driver was approached by two masked males who produced a weapon and demanded money of him. A similar incident occurred on Thursday December 20th, 2012 at the Ingersoll Golf & Country Club, Ingersoll.

In all three incidents the suspects have similar descriptions and chose isolated locations for pickup during early morning hours.

Anyone with information regarding this incident should immediately contact their local Police Service, or the Ontario Provincial Police at 1 – 888 – 310 -1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1 – 800 – 222 – TIPS (8477) or leave an anonymous online message at www.helpsolvecrime.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.

Taxi Cab Operators are cautioned to be aware of fares.

Obtain as much information as possible prior to pick up
Obtain a call back number, and call back to confirm correct information
Be clear of instructions
Know where you are going and be sure your dispatch is aware
Keep taxi cab doors locked at all times
Carry minimal cash and/or valuables
Stay in your cab until you are comfortable with your client
Pick up fare in well lighted areas if at all possible
Consider installing safety screen/ shield(s)
Consider installing and using video surveillance/cameras
Stay calm, obtain as many details about suspect as possible and write them down at earliest opportunity.
If situation make you feel nervous drive away.

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