When taking a taxi ride in Abu Dhabi is a crime

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department has registered about 400 cases of unlicensed passenger transport heard by the Court of Misdemeanour from the beginning of the year.

The department stressed the high number indicates a phenomenon that must be tackled, not only to protect the transport companies' interests, but also the interest and safety of taxi users. 

The Judicial Department reiterated that transporting passengers without a license "is a criminal offence, with or without monetary charges". The Judicial Department stated the law that regulates taxi licensing, stipulates the company should have ability to track a taxi, if a driver attacks a passenger, or if a passenger loses items. 

The department sternly warns public against using unlicensed taxis, whether they pay for the service or not, because it exposes them to a number of dangers such as kidnapping, captivity, theft, physical abuse and even death.

It noted that such drivers, having already broken the law have no qualms about committing more crimes, as they are harder to trace and pursue, contrary to the licensed drivers who remain under constant surveillance.

Any unexplainable trajectory or stop is immediately questioned, which in turn curbs the possibility of crime and facilitates pursuit and prosecution.

The department concluded by stating: "Such illegal drivers congregate near airports and other inter-cities collective commute stations, offering their services to the public for less than the normal fare, however this is no bargain considering the possible dangers a passenger can face upon accepting the service."

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