Appeal after taxi driver robbed in Blyth

Two armed men attacked a taxi driver and robbed him during a distraction theft.
Police are appealing for information after a taxi driver was robbed in Newcastle Road, Newsham. Picture courtesy of Google Maps.Police are appealing for information after a taxi driver was robbed in Newcastle Road, Newsham. Picture courtesy of Google Maps.
Police are appealing for information after a taxi driver was robbed in Newcastle Road, Newsham. Picture courtesy of Google Maps.

Officers have appealed for information after the driver was tricked and robbed by a group of offenders.

The incident happened just before 11.40pm on May 4 when the victim spotted a cyclist who had appeared to have fallen from his bike on Newcastle Road, Newsham.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

When he stopped to help, two males in dark clothing grabbed his cash bag and tore his clothing while in possession of a suspected bladed article.

The offenders made off on foot along Cottingwood Green, along with the cyclist.

The driver, who was shaken but uninjured, attempted to track their whereabouts but lost sight of them and called 999.

Police are asking anybody who witnessed anything suspicious in the area or may have information to come forward.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

PC Michael Hall, leading the investigation, said: “This was a cynical robbery as the offenders preyed on the good nature of their victim.

"The incident could have resulted in serious injury had the blade cut more than just the driver’s clothing.

“We are committed to ensuring those responsible for this appalling robbery are brought to justice.

"If you saw this incident – or saw a silver Skoda Octavia taxi driving in the area between 11.20pm and 11.50pm – please get in touch with us.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Your information, however small or insignificant you feel it may be, could prove the key to making sure the offenders responsible are located and put before the courts.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log 1216 040521 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.