Fight to drive down taxi assaults

The posters will be displayed on the underground

Women in London are being warned about the dangers of using illegal minicabs.

The Metropolitan Police and the Mayor of London have joined forces to issue the warning.

Police figures show 214 women have been raped or sexually assaulted by illegal drivers in the capital over the past 12 months.

In an attempt to drive this figure down the Safer Travel at Night initiative has been created.

Posters with the slogan 'Know what you're getting into?' will be displayed on the London Underground network and in magazines.

'Book it'

Ken Livingstone said: "The number of assaults connected with illegal minicabs is shocking.

"Londoners need to be aware of the risk they are taking if they take an illegal minicab off the street.

"There are now much easier, safer and more reliable options overnight.

"More night buses than ever running to more destinations right across the capital and more black cabs are available through the night."

The Mayor said he is also licensing minicabs for the first time so his advice is "if you want to take a minicab book it from a licensed operator - never take an illegal minicab from the street".

Postcards featuring personal safety advice will also be distributed around pubs and clubs in the West End and the City.