Private hire driver prosecuted for 'blagging' following Milton Keynes Council's sting operation

Rofiqul Islam was found guilty at Milton Keynes Magistrates' Court on for accepting a £20 journey from Stony Stratford to Newport Pagnell in October 2019 which was not pre-booked.

Islam, of Oak Road, Luton, was only insured for pre-booked journeys with operator Skyline.

The 46-year-old pleaded not guilty but following the trial he was found guilty on Monday, October 19 of plying for hire and driving without valid motor insurance.

He was fined £60 for plying for hire, £50 for no insurance, given 6 points on his DVLA licence and ordered to pay costs of £300 with a victim surcharge of £30.

The driver is licensed by Buckinghamshire Council who will now review his licence as a result of this conviction.

Councillor Mick Legg, from MK Council, said: "For £20 this driver took the risk of breaking the law which has subsequently cost him £440 and put 6 points on his DVLA licence - which will also increase the cost of his vehicle insurance.

“Let’s hope this driver has learnt his lesson and all other drivers take note that if they break the law then they will be caught and prosecuted."

Mr Legg urged members of the public to only get into private hire vehicles if they have mad a prearranged booking for 'their own safety'.

He said: "Public safety is our number one priority and we will not hesitate to take action against anyone who puts this at risk."