Spate of break-ins targeting private hire taxis in Reading

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Private hire taxi drivers are being warned to protect their vehicles after a spate of break-ins across Reading.

It is believed dozens of private hire taxis, parked outside drivers' homes, have been targeted by thieves in the Whitley, Oxford Road and Southcote areas across a two week period.

One firm says it is costing them business.

Drivers are now being told to make sure all money and valuable items are removed.

Driver Gulkhan Kazmi was forced to take an unexpected break when, two weeks ago, he woke up to find his car windows had been smashed overnight.

They left it a mess and stole his bag of loose change.

At Capital Cars in Reading, they have had at least one driver hit every day for the past fortnight.

Every time it happens, there is an insurance excess to pay, plus the cost of anything stolen.

It can also put the car out of action for at least a day, sometimes two, meaning the driver cannot work.

A number of other firms in the town say they too have been affected.

They are now advising drivers to take all valuables, and change, out of the car at the end of their shift.