11 Aug 2010

Widow of slain taxi driver wants more safety measures

7:47 am on 11 August 2010

Family and friends of slain Auckland taxi driver Hiren Mohini say the Government hasn't gone far enough to bolster taxi safety, in its move to make security cameras in cabs compulsory.

From next year, taxis in larger towns and cities must be fitted with security cameras. The new rules will apply in cities and other areas where more than 20 taxis are in operation.

The Government says the move is necessary due to the number of attacks on drivers, including two deaths since December 2008.

The second death, of Hiren Mohini in January this year, was the catalyst for the Government's announcement.

Mr Mohini's widow, Falguni Mohini, says while cameras will be very good for the drivers, more could have been done, and safety screens would be the best protection.

A close friend of Mr Mohini, Satish Chopra, who is also a taxi driver in Auckland says a camera won't stop a punch, or a knife.