Taxi driver issues safety warning after frightening incident near Littleborough railway station

A taxi driver has urged colleagues across Rochdale borough to remain vigilant after describing a frightening encounter while waiting for his next booking near Littleborough railway station.

The driver said the incident happened shortly after completing an Uber journey from Rochdale Railway Station to a passenger drop-off in Littleborough. After finishing the fare, he parked on a nearby street opposite Littleborough Railway Station while waiting for his next booking.

According to the driver's account, a man described as a white British male aged between 35 and 45 approached the vehicle accompanied by a dog. The driver says the man opened the car door without permission before placing the dog inside the vehicle, along with a bag containing unknown items.

When challenged, the driver alleges the man became aggressive and attempted to damage the vehicle by striking one of the windows. Fearing for his safety, the driver immediately contacted Greater Manchester Police while remaining inside the vehicle.

The driver says the alleged aggression continued while he was speaking to police, prompting him to drive to a safer, busier location near Sainsbury's Local in Littleborough, where he waited for officers to arrive.

Police subsequently attended the scene, took a statement and dealt with the reported incident. Rochdale Daily has approached Greater Manchester Police to establish whether any arrests were made or investigations remain ongoing.

Following the incident, the driver shared his experience publicly in the hope of preventing something similar from happening to others working in the taxi trade.

He is encouraging drivers to avoid waiting for jobs in isolated streets where possible and instead use well-lit locations with passing pedestrians or nearby businesses. He also advises drivers to keep vehicle doors locked while waiting for bookings and to contact police immediately if they feel threatened.

Personal safety is an important consideration for taxi and private hire drivers, many of whom work alone at all hours of the day and night. Drivers frequently find themselves waiting for bookings in unfamiliar locations or transporting passengers they have never previously met. Industry organisations have long encouraged drivers to remain aware of their surroundings, keep communication devices readily available and report suspicious or aggressive behaviour promptly.

While incidents of this nature remain relatively uncommon, they serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by those working in the transport sector. For many drivers, particularly those working evening and overnight shifts, staying alert and choosing safe waiting locations forms an important part of their daily routine.

Anyone who witnesses criminal damage, threatening behaviour or any incident where someone feels at immediate risk should contact Greater Manchester Police on 999 in an emergency, or report non-emergency incidents by calling 101 or using the force's online reporting service.