Unlicensed taxi drivers plaguing Fraserburgh may soon be slapped with £2,500 fines as the police and council launch an operation to tackle the problem.
Taxi drivers spoke out about their fears for the safety of party goers being given lifts home from around 30 young drivers operating as unofficial taxis.
Licensed drivers in the town claim the new arrivals are putting people at risk, as well as threatening their livelihoods.
Last night it was announced that a joint operation with Aberdeenshire Council and the police will result in additional patrols, which will target young drivers in the area who advertise lifts on social media in exchange for money.
Individuals operating as a taxi without the appropriate licence could receive a fine of up to £2,500 and those without insurance could be handed points and a fine, disqualified from driving or have their vehicle seized.
Sergeant Tricia MacLean, from the North East Divisional Licensing Unit, said: “The legitimate taxi trade go through rigorous checks to ensure their vehicles are safe and suitable to transport members of the public. Unlicensed drivers have not undergone these checks.
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“While offers from such drivers might be appealing from a financial point of view, you may be compromising your safety and putting yourself at significant risk.
“Remember that legitimate taxi drivers are expected to clearly display their taxi or private hire licence plates and carry photo identification to prove their status.
“If either of these items are not visible, I’d strongly advise you not to enter the vehicle.”
Local taxi drivers who raised concerns about what was going on were “delighted” by the news.
Thomas Beedie of First Cabs Fraserburgh said: “I think it’s a step in the right direction.
“Ensuring a greater police presence on Saturday nights, being proactive and trying to tackle the problem is a good approach.
“Our main concern is the health and safety of the people who use these drivers to take them home – not just their friends.
“These are people going on Facebook flashing the emojis and pound signs taking business in that way.
“I’m absolutely delighted that something will be done and I want to thank the Press and Journal for helping us highlight how bad the problem is.”
The licensing department at Aberdeenshire Council will be working with the police as they class residents safety as “paramount”.
A spokesman added: “We would encourage any member of the public who believes someone is operating a taxi without a licence to contact police as to operate or drive a taxi without a licence is a criminal offence.”