Banbury taxi driver loses licence following allegations of misconduct toward passenger

A Banbury taxi driver has lost his licence following allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards a vulnerable female passenger, with a magistrates’ court upholding the council’s decision to revoke the licence.

Mohammed Shahzad, 46, of Evenlode, Banbury, had his taxi licence revoked by Cherwell District Council on 4 July 2024. The immediate action followed a report concerning Shahzad’s conduct during a short, pre-booked five-minute journey.

At a hearing held on Monday 7 July 2025 at Oxford Magistrates’ Court, the court upheld the council’s decision, concluding that Shahzad had breached the professional standards required of licensed taxi drivers in the district.

The court found that his behaviour was unprofessional and incompatible with the safeguarding expectations of the role. As part of its ruling, Shahzad was ordered to pay a portion of the legal costs incurred by the council in bringing the case forward.

Councillor Rob Parkinson, portfolio holder for safer communities at Cherwell District Council, said the authority prioritises public safety and places firm conditions on all licensed drivers.

“Taxis are a key service for Cherwell residents, allowing them to get to work, the shops, or to attend vital appointments,” Councillor Parkinson said. “We work hard to give residents the confidence to travel by taxi, and this includes strictly upholding the conditions attached to drivers’ licences.”

He noted that the incident represented a “rare but serious breach” of driver responsibilities, highlighting the council’s swift response to protect the public. “I welcome the magistrate’s decision this week and hope it reassures passengers that the licensing authority takes their safety and comfort very seriously.”

Taxi licensing in the district is governed by robust standards requiring drivers to pass enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and complete disability awareness and safeguarding training before approval. These measures are designed to ensure drivers are deemed fit and proper persons to hold a licence and carry out their duties responsibly.

The council stated its continuing commitment to enforcing these standards, especially in relation to passenger welfare and safeguarding.