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Posted on the 18th June 2025 in PHTM News
ESSEX TAXI DRIVER "FEARED FOR HIS LIFE" IN ALLEGED "AMBUSH" STABBING
An Essex taxi driver recounted a terrifying ordeal where he claims he "feared for his life" after being allegedly stabbed during an "ambush" by a group of masked individuals while on a fare.
Claudiu Sandra, 26, was working in the early hours of June 8 when he reportedly took a young woman to a residential area of Mistley, near Manningtree. He claims that while waiting for payment, he was suddenly "ambushed" by seven masked people, one of whom was allegedly armed with a knife.
"I totally, definitely, feared for my life," Mr. Sandra said, recalling the incident. "My mind went to one of the worst situations that I can think.
"I was thinking that every move or thing I say could cost me my life. I was almost speechless until they started attacking me. I then just had to go with the flow and try to protect myself. When it's one versus seven, you can't really manage."
Essex Police have confirmed that four people have been arrested in connection with the incident in Brunswick Gardens.
Mr. Sandra, a taxi driver for three years, stated that he was left deeply shocked and, once fully recovered, would no longer work night shifts.
"I would not do night-time jobs again. It's not just the trauma, but for my mum too. Those hours when I was in surgery, she did not know what had happened, and it's a lot of stress.
"I will always have this in the back of my mind," he explained.
Detectives have questioned four teenagers in connection with the incident. Two 18-year-old men from Colchester were arrested on suspicion of causing GBH and have been bailed until late August. Two girls, aged 17 and 16, were also arrested on suspicion of causing GBH and bailed until late August.
The investigation remains ongoing. Essex Police are appealing for anyone with information or footage to contact them, quoting incident 0055 of June 8.
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