Police and council officers launched a targeted blitz on Canterbury taxi ranks to protect women and girls. The operation, held on Friday 27 March 2026, focused on driver safeguarding, vehicle safety, and licensing compliance.
Drivers Scrutinised and Dangerous Items Seized
Officers from Canterbury’s Community Safety Unit teamed up with the City Council’s Licensing Enforcement Team to check 21 taxi drivers throughout the evening. Each driver was handed a safeguarding pack to boost their awareness of spotting and reporting violence against women and girls.
Two drivers had their licences suspended on the spot for bald tyres. Kent Police slapped them with Traffic Offence Reports. During vehicle searches, officers confiscated two small serrated knives.
Drugs Dog Sniffs Out Trouble
Specialist drugs dog PD Sully prowled the Canterbury Lane and St George’s Lane ranks, joining in nine drug searches. Two men caught with cannabis were apprehended; one was arrested after police found a knife on him. He is currently on bail as inquiries continue.
Officials Vow to Keep Pressure on Problem Drivers
“Most taxi drivers offer a good service, but it’s crucial they understand their safeguarding duties fully,” said Licensing Officer PC Daniell Rolfe. “Kent Police will keep working with partners to raise safety standards and ensure businesses play by the rules.”
Community Safety Cabinet Member Cllr Connie Nolan added: “Taxi drivers carry huge trust, often driving vulnerable passengers late at night. This operation made sure they meet all legal and licensing standards. When issues popped up, officers acted swiftly to protect the public.”
“We’ve had positive feedback from drivers who appreciated us tackling the few letting the trade down,” she said.
