
A late-night dispute over a taxi fare turned violent in the early hours of January 4, leaving a local driver "shaken" after being struck in the face.
Hampshire Police were called to Holcroft Road just before 12:30 am following reports of an altercation between a driver and their passenger. According to investigators, the violence erupted after the passenger reportedly "refused to pay their fare."
The physical assault occurred mid-dispute, resulting in the driver being struck. While no life-threatening injuries were reported, the psychological impact on the victim has been noted by authorities.
A police spokesperson confirmed that "enquiries are now underway to identify the person responsible" and that officers are currently "reviewing the circumstances surrounding the assault" to trace the passenger’s movements.
Local officers are now turning to the public to help bridge the gap in their investigation. Police are appealing for:
Eye-witnesses who were on Holcroft Road at the time.
Anyone with "information that could assist the investigation" to come forward.
Residents with CCTV or doorbell camera footage from the area.
Anyone with relevant details is urged to contact the police via 101.

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