Posted on the 7th January 2026 in PHTM News
'GHOST PLATES' AND BALD TYRES SEIZED IN LATE-NIGHT WALSALL TAXI CRACKDOWN
A joint taxi/PHV enforcement operation in Walsall town centre uncovered a series of dangerous vehicle defects and illegal modifications, including the discovery of prohibited "ghost plates."
The late-night sweep, conducted between 8pm and 1am at the end of November, saw 16 vehicles inspected by officers from Walsall Council, City of Wolverhampton Council, and West Midlands Police.
While half of the taxis/PHVs passed all routine compliance checks, the remainder faced "immediate action" to address safety failures.
Among the most serious breaches was a vehicle found using "ghost plates" - reflective modifications designed to evade ANPR cameras - which resulted in an immediate suspension.
Another taxi was taken off the road for a bald tyre, while two drivers were issued penalty points for illegal window tints.
Further issues included missing identification, lack of safety equipment, and standard compliance failures.
Walsall councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement, emphasised that such checks are vital to maintaining public trust in the trade.
“Passenger safety is our absolute priority. Operations like this are about making sure licensed vehicles meet the standards people expect when they get into a taxi in Walsall.”
The operation highlighted the ongoing collaboration between neighboring councils to monitor drivers across district lines.
A spokesperson for the City of Wolverhampton Council reiterated their commitment to proactive nationwide enforcement: "We take our licensing responsibilities seriously... carrying out regular operations with partners to protect the public and ensure they travel in safety. This includes cracking down on taxis using 'ghost plates' which are illegal.”
Despite the violations, authorities noted it was "encouraging" that 50% of the fleet was fully compliant.
However, Councillor Hicken warned that there would be no leniency for those who bypass safety laws. “Residents across Walsall get rightly fed up with dangerous vehicles being used on our roads... where issues are found, we will always take action.”
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