Taxi drivers help police to fight crime

Senior officers said they will now continue to run Operation Karri, which has been supported by members of Sheffield’s taxi organisations, who have helped police identify prolific thieves.

Much of the information passed by drivers has been provided through the use of confidential questionnaires produced by the force, which ask for details of conversations heard in minicabs and taxis.

Sgt Simon Kirkham, who is in charge of the scheme, said it was hoped the flow of information would continue and help police tackle crimes like burglary, robbery and theft from cars.

He said other forces were now looking to adopt the idea and added: “The co-operation from taxi drivers has been excellent and we thank them for their support.

“People work very hard to enjoy expensive things such as laptops, mobile phones and satellite navigation systems.

“This initiative will help close the door to thieves that hope to benefit from their crime by selling other people’s stolen property.

“Our message is clear: if you buy or sell stolen goods, then sooner or later, police officers will be on your doorstep.”

South Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Shaun Wright, said: “Burglary can have a huge effect on people’s lives and this operation helps tackle the issue.

“It’s great to see South Yorkshire Police leading the way through this initiative, with other police forces looking into how they can adopt this approach in their area.”