Parts of Sheffield are becoming “no-go areas” for taxi and private hire drivers following a surge in violent attacks that have left the trade in fear for their lives.

The warning comes as Sheffield City Councillor Mark Rusling (pictured centre) met with local drivers to address an alarming spike in incidents.

Drivers reported being targeted with bricks and other missiles, with some describing harrowing accounts of windscreens being shattered while they were behind the wheel.

In one particularly dangerous instance, a driver had a brick dropped onto his vehicle while passing under a bridge. Many have been forced to stop working entirely due to the extensive damage caused to their cars.

Cllr Rusling, who represents Shiregreen and Brightside, joined forces with the drivers to demand immediate action, stating that the problem is rapidly deteriorating.

According to the councillor, drivers are now systematically refusing to serve specific neighborhoods due to the risk of assault.

“I was absolutely shocked to hear of the dangers that taxi drivers are facing just for doing their job. It is an utter disgrace,” said Cllr Rusling.

“Drivers are a vital part of our city’s community and have the right to go about their work without fear of being attacked with stones and bricks.”

The violence is not limited to a single neighborhood. Reports of missile attacks have emerged from:

  • Shiregreen Lane (particularly over the Christmas period)

  • Birley and Woodthorpe Road

  • City Road

  • Sheffield Railway Station

While incidents occur throughout the week, drivers noted a significant increase in frequency on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Sheffield Taxi Trade Association has warned that if the current trend continues, a fatality is inevitable. Hafeas Rehman, chairman of the association, emphasised that the issue has become an inescapable part of the job.

“Every driver in Sheffield will have experienced violence, and the problem is getting worse,” Mr. Rehman warned. “Attacks on drivers are happening every week and this has to stop. If the violence continues, it is only a matter of time before somebody gets seriously hurt.”

In response to the crisis, drivers and local representatives are calling on the police to increase patrols in identified hotspot areas.

They are also issuing a direct plea to parents to educate their children on the life-threatening dangers of throwing missiles at moving vehicles.