Private Hire Driver Threatened Near Station
A private hire driver has urged colleagues across Rochdale to stay alert and keep vehicle doors locked after being targeted in a frightening incident near Littleborough railway station recently.
The driver, who had just completed an Uber journey, was parked nearby awaiting his next booking when an unknown man approached his vehicle. According to the driver, the man, described as a white British male aged between 35 and 45, suddenly opened the car door without permission and placed a dog inside, along with a bag containing unknown items.
When challenged, the man allegedly became aggressive and attempted to smash one of the car windows, striking it repeatedly. Fearing for his safety, the driver immediately dialled 999 while still inside the vehicle and drove to a well‑lit area near Sainsbury’s Local, where he waited for officers to arrive.
Greater Manchester Police attended the scene, took a statement, and dealt with the matter. It is currently unclear whether any arrests have been made.
Speaking out to protect others in the trade, the driver urged fellow cabbies to take simple precautions while waiting for fares:
- Keep vehicle doors locked at all times when stationary
- Choose well‑lit areas with regular foot traffic
- Contact police immediately if threatened or approached suspiciously
Industry representatives say incidents of this nature remain relatively rare, but the ordeal highlights the daily safety risks faced by lone transport workers, particularly those operating late at night or in quieter areas.
