Joint operation sees taxi safety inspections in Swansea during Freshers Week

Last weekend, the Swansea and Neath Port Talbot Police Licensing Team conducted Operation Nepsara – organised alongside Swansea Council’s Taxi Licensing Team - which ensures that taxi drivers working in the local area are licensed and their vehicles are safe during the Freshers Week period.

The operation was conducted alongside colleagues from the Safer Roads team (who were attached to their own operation, Op Night Owl), as well as local authority taxi licensing teams from Swansea Council, Neath Port Talbot Council and Newport City Council, plus the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency as well as immigration officers.

During the evening, a total of 30 vehicles were brought into the inspection area, with a further 22 vehicles stopped and checked out on the roads by the Safer Roads Team.

Of the vehicles checked within the inspection area, three taxis were issued warnings for low tread and defects with lights. Four taxis were issued with Stop Notices and made to replace tyres and rectify defects on the spot before being allowed to resuming work as a taxi. One vehicle was taken off the road for having a dangerous and broken suspension.

Sergeant James Ponting said:

“Ensuring that our city centre taxis are safe and have all the required licensing is of the utmost importance at any time of year, but this is particularly important during events like Freshers Week, when we expect a larger number of people to be using taxis.

“Operations such as Op Nepsara are vital in ensuring that taxi operators are adhering to these important safety guidelines.”

Andrew Williams, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, said:

“We are proud to welcome and host multi-agency operations here in Swansea. These collaborative efforts are vital to ensuring public safety, particularly within the night-time economy.

“It is essential that members of the public can trust the taxis and private hire vehicles they use, and that both vehicles and drivers are fit for purpose. Protecting vulnerable individuals and enabling safe travel to and from our city remains a top priority for Swansea Council.”