Taxi driver punched in horrifying Vincent robbery

A taxi driver has been assaulted in a horrifying robbery in the early hours of this morning.

A Townsville taxi driver was punched multiple times during a robbery in Vincent.

A taxi driver has been assaulted in a horrifying robbery in the early hours of this morning.

The 40-year-old male driver was driving a man to the intersection of Palmerston St and Beattie Cres, Vincent about 2.40am.

Police said the passenger grabbed the steering wheel when asked for payment and forced the taxi to the side of the road. The passenger then produced a threatening metal object from his pocket.

The man then punched the driver a number of times before reaching into the centre console and taking money and a phone. The driver suffered facial injuries during the incident.

The passenger fled the scene and police are appealing for witnesses.

The man is described as being in his 20s, with a slim build, dark complexion, bald and was wearing a black T-shirt.

Witnesses with any information are urged to phone Policelink on 131 444.

Originally published as Taxi driver punched in horrifying Vincent robbery