Taxi drivers in Dundee are demanding self-defence lessons and greater protection following what they describe as a "surge" in racist abuse and assaults.

The calls came at an emergency meeting of the Dundee City Taxi Drivers’ Association (DCTDA) on Monday, September 8, prompted by two recent incidents involving drivers and passengers: a 38-year-old woman was charged after an alleged assault and robbery in the early hours of Monday morning, and a 22-year-old man was due to appear in court after allegedly carrying a bladed weapon in a taxi.

According to a report by The Courier, about 60 people, including drivers, taxi firm representatives, and police officers, attended the meeting called by Qaiser Habib, president of the DCTDA.

Many drivers voiced concerns about an increase in racial prejudice, with one driver stating that he is targeted by "every second customer."

The driver, who wished to remain anonymous, said passengers frequently question his origin and nationality. "You tell them, I’m not from Mars, I was born here, I am Scottish," he said, but the questioning continues until he reveals his Pakistani heritage, "and then they tell me I’m not Scottish," he said.

“They then speak about me being Muslim and what’s happening around the world. What’s been happening the past few months, mostly down in England, is crazy.

“You can see the same wave continuing here as well. It is getting worse because when I started taxis, I felt Dundee was easier-going, and people were more friendly.

“It has deteriorated over the years, and at this point, every second customer who jumps in the car has a prejudice against you.

“When I come to work, I try to stay in a happy mood all the time, but if there are one or two rogue customers who are abusive or aggressive, it affects that; it changes my mood.

“It comes to a point where you’ve had enough.”

Another driver claimed that dealing with this "constant" abuse has taken a mental toll, noting, "everyone has limits."

He also believes a change to the way complaints against taxi drivers are handled is needed. He highlighted the fear of losing his license due to false complaints, as even a minor claim could lead to a suspension, leaving a driver unable to work for weeks or months.

The driver said: “We are lone workers, and any complaint, even the smallest, like a claim we have taken the wrong route, can result in us losing our licence.

“Some people will also make up claims to avoid paying their fare."

Ryan, a representative from City Cabs, added: “Everyone deserves the right to go to work in a safe environment without the fear of harm. There should be a zero-tolerance approach to violence."

In response to these safety concerns, drivers called for tangible measures, including the installation of Perspex screens and panic buttons in taxis connected to the police control room.

One driver suggested self-defence training videos to help drivers prepare for when things go wrong.

He said: “I wonder if the licensing authorities could provide training videos on self-defence in these situations where you are sitting in a car, where someone might grab your hand.

“How can you easily remove your hand and get away? It is very important because not everyone knows how to do this.

“We are trained in first aid and customer services, but in these situations, drivers don’t know if they can use self-defence."

Qaiser Habib stressed the importance of mutual support and a unified stand against such behaviour.

"Dundee is a peaceful city, and we don’t want to tolerate any racial abuse or attacks," Habib said. "We don't want anyone to disrespect our profession."

Police Scotland and the Dundee City Council have both acknowledged the drivers' concerns.

Chief Inspector Rachael Burns, Local Area Commander for Police Scotland, stated that the police "take seriously any concerns about their safety" and will continue to engage with the association.

A council spokesperson noted their support for the "No Excuse for Abuse" campaign and encouraged drivers to report safety issues directly to them.

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