Racist attack on Afghan taxi driver

The driver was found lying outside a pub on the Green

Police are investigating a racial attack - in which remarks were made about the atrocities in the US - which left an Afghan minicab driver paralysed.

The victim, who now lives in Acton, west London, had picked up three men and a woman in the area before dropping them off in Twickenham on Sunday.

Police officers found the 28-year-old man shortly after 3am outside the Prince Blucher pub on The Green, Twickenham.

We are anxious to speak to anyone who may have witnessed what was a vicious racial attack

Inspector Clarke Jarrett

He was taken with serious injuries by ambulance to West Middlesex Hospital, where his condition deteriorated.

The victim was transferred to Charing Cross Hospital where he is currently stable in the high dependency unit.

He is paralysed from the neck down.

Police believe the victim had picked up the customers in a blue VW Golf with the registration number N869 UJB and had dropped them off in the Staines Road area of Twickenham.

It is thought the incident stemmed from a dispute over the fare, after which the victim was attacked by the male passengers who he describes as being in their early twenties.

The man was taken to West Middlesex Hospital

Police are anxious to speak to the woman who witnessed the incident.

Officers believe remarks were made about the atrocities in the US were made but have not been able to confirm what was said by who.

The victim was assaulted and racially abused by the three passengers.

He was hit over the head with a bottle and kicked as he lay on the ground.

Witness appeal

Inspector Clarke Jarrett, who is investigating the incident, said: "We are anxious to speak to anyone who may have witnessed what was a vicious racial attack.

"Were you in the Staines Road area at the time?

"Did you see or hear either the assault or the argument between the victim and his attackers?"

Anyone with information should call Twickenham CID on 020 8247 7031.

Alternatively, if you wish to give information and remain anonymous, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.