FRAUDSTERS who ripped licence plates from private hire taxis in Blackbird Leys could be planning to pose as legitimate drivers, police warned.

Today they urged the public to be vigilant after a spate of three thefts was reported on Saturday.

In the early hours of the morning, the three private hire licence plates were taken from three cars on Merlin Road, Blackbird Leys.

Police fear the criminals could put the plates onto unlicensed vehicles to fraudulently obtain money from paying passengers.

Anwar Hussain was one of the drivers who had his plate taken.

He said: “I’ve already paid £262 for the plate for a year and because it’s stolen I have to pay £25 to replace it.”

Pc Neil Streeter, from Oxford Priority Crime Department, said: “Private hire vehicles can only be used by the public if they are booked over the telephone or used directly from a private hire office. They should not pick up passengers off the street without prior booking.

“I urge the public to check for valid forms of drivers identification issued by Oxford City Council which should be on display or be presented by the driver upon request.”

Julian Alison, from Oxford City Council, added: “Members of the public can check a list of approved licensed Private Hire Operators, and general information relating to licensed drivers and vehicles on our website.”

If you have information call Pc Streeter on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.