ABC Taxis cabbie stops suspected drink driver in Benfleet

Accountant Mohammad Ali Shah, 29, who is also driver with ABC Taxis, based in Church Road, was driving a passenger on High Road, near the Anchor pub, at 11pm on Saturday when he became “very concerned” about another vehicle.

Mohammed said he immediately “flashed the car and used his vehicle to block the car in to prevent him continuing on his journey” before taking the driver's keys to ensure he could not drive.

The 29-year-old said: “It happened at the busiest time, and I knew that if I did nothing about the driver, something bad could’ve happened.

“It was scary and heartbreaking because it was right in High Road and given it was Saturday night, it was full of people using the pubs.

"The keys were given to police, when they arrived at around 12am, and I gave the driver a lift back to where he lives in Amid Road, Canvey.

“For me, I didn’t think twice about it. It’s human nature and instinct to help and do something to keep everyone safe.

“I feel happy and really proud that I made people realise what humanity is, but for me, knowing people were safe is the most important thing.

“Becoming a taxi driver has made me stronger, in terms of not getting emotional, such as when a woman nearly jumped out of my cab while driving after a fight.

“I love my job.”

Mohammed suspected that the driver was “intoxicated”.

A spokesman for Essex Police said the force had received a report of the incident and inquiries ongoing.

It is understood that no one has yet been arrested in relation to the incident. 

The passenger emailed the firm to praise Mohammed, which left everyone feeling surprised and “so proud”.

Michael Hannan, owner of ABC Taxis, said: “We’re absolutely so proud of him, and the lady that emailed us to say what happened left some of my staff in tears.

“We’re a family, and our friends are on the road at all times.

“He was looking out for all his friends.

“It’s amazing what Mohammed did, and we’re just so proud of him.”