Taxi driver charged after allegedly threatening passengers with knives and driving vehicle at them

A taxi driver has been charged after a worrying series of events unfolded late at night in a Gold Coast party precinct, according to police.

A 35-year-old taxi driver will face court for allegedly threatening passengers with a knife in Surfers Paradise and then attempting to run them down.

The driver has been charged with one count each of going armed to cause fear and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, following an incident in the party precinct on Monday morning.

Police were called to accommodation outside the intersection of Hanlan St and Surfers Paradise Blvd at 1.30am, responding to reports of a man wielding several knives.

Knives allegedly seized from the taxi by Queensland Police. Picture: Supplied

A security guard notified authorities of an incident after observing the driver having an argument about a fare charge with four male passengers, during which it is alleged he pulled weapons on the group, who then fled on foot.

Police will allege the driver then followed the group in his taxi, before intentionally driving into one of the men at the intersection of Cavill Ave and Surfers Paradise Boulevard, causing the person to be thrown onto the bonnet of the vehicle before falling to the ground.

He then allegedly reversed the taxi, revved the engine and drove at speed towards another member of the group, narrowly missing him.

All members of the group sustained minor injuries.

Superintendent Assistant District Officer Geoff Sheldon. Picture: Scott Powick

Police located the driver a short time later at nearby Macintosh Park in Main Beach, where he was arrested.

He received police bail on Monday morning and is due to appear in Southport Magistrates Court on Monday, August 15.

Superintendent Assistant District Officer Geoff Sheldon said the driver had no previous history of violence, but authorities were concerned that he was armed while on duty.

“There are all kinds of systems in place for character references for taxi drivers – this fellow has … made the grade and hasn’t had any previous convictions,” Mr Sheldon said.

“It’s concerning … given he’s rostered on for a shift in a taxi and he feels he has to bring a knife along.”

Mr Sheldon confirmed that upon capture the driver co-operated with officers and showed no sign of intoxication.

Police seized two knives from the vehicle.

“There were two knives retrieved from the taxi – they were standard bread-sized knives,” Mr Sheldon said, adding that the driver “didn’t swing (the knives) at or stab anyone”.

Mr Sheldon added that the four passengers, who are yet to be identified, haven’t been charged with any wrongdoing, and are assisting police with their inquiries.

“We’ve now found some (of the passengers) and are obtaining statements in regards to the matter,” he said.

Know more? Phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Originally published as Taxi driver charged after allegedly threatening passengers with knives and driving vehicle at them