Cabbies urged to keep crime watch

TAXI DRIVERS are being urged to report crimes they spot while driving through the streets of London.

The London Taxi Watch initiative aims to persuade drivers to pass on information to Crimestoppers anonymously.

It is hoped that the nature of their job will enable them to alert the authorities to suspicious behaviour.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe said: "London's cabbies are the best in the world. With police officers they are there all hours, all weathers and all places. They can be our eyes and ears and help victims of crime."

Crimestoppers' London campaigns manager, Regan Hook, said the drivers could become "everyday heroes" by reporting crime.

"Cab drivers may be aware of crime perpetrators including those involved in vehicle-related crime or may have information and intelligence about other serious crimes," he added.

"They can invaluably help fight crime by contacting the charity anonymously and play a part in making London safer."

The initiative will be launched outside the capital's City Hall at 10am today.

By Neil Lancefield, Press Association