24/09/2021
‼TAXI AND PRIVATE HIRE DRIVERS URGED TO LOOK OUT FOR WOMEN IN DANGER AFTER SABINA NESSA MURDER‼
Taxi and bus drivers in the West Midlands have been urged to be on the lookout for women who could be in danger following the murder of Sabina Nessa.
According to BirminghamLive, West Midlands Police Inspector Lee Trinder warned "being a silent bystander is not OK" as he told taxi and bus drivers they have an important role to play in keeping women safe.
The murder of primary school teacher Sabina, 28, in London has once again put the issue of women's safety into the spotlight.
Inspector Trinder said drivers should be aware of any women they pick up who appear to be in danger and to call the police if they have concerns. This includes women who have been drinking and may be more vulnerable.
The police chief said on Twitter: "I am calling on all professional taxi/bus drivers that should you pick up a fare, any party (female particularly) being highly intoxicated with people who seem not to be, or controlling the situation, then call us. We will check on them. Being a silent bystander is not OK."
Pam Beckley, from The Haven in Wolverhampton, which supports vulnerable women, said men need to "have conversations" with each other about how their actions affect women. The murder of Sarah Everard sparked widespread protests and calls for change earlier this year.
Ms Beckley said: "I understand people are quick to say it's not all men but they need to realise it is all women. Even though it isn't all men, men can do their bit by holding each other accountable and having the conversation.
"People talk about how women can protect themselves but people don't realise a lot of women do all the things they have been told to do but these things don't equate to protection.
"Sarah Everard called a friend to let her know where she was. She still met her end.
"I personally think a lot more work needs to be done on taking violence against women seriously."
Police in the West Midlands are also pushing a safety campaign called 'Ask for Angela' where women who do not feel safe or comfortable when out are encouraged to ask staff for 'Angela'. This will alert them to the fact something is not right and they will then call a taxi or get them out discreetly.
Meanwhile, detectives continue to question a 38-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of the murder of Sabina Nessa.
The Metropolitan Police has been appealing for information since her body was found on Saturday evening.