Passenger Bit Chunk Out Of Mini-Cabbie's Nose After Refusing To Pay

A passenger bit off part of a mini-cab driver's nose during a late-night fare dispute in east London.

Police have released this image of the suspect, wanted for the “brutal” attack in Benskins Lane, near Church Road, Romford just before midnight on May 26.

The 51 year-old driver suffered serious facial injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital.

He had collected the suspect in South Street, shortly before the incident and was due to take him to Noak Hill Road.

During the journey, the suspect asked to change the destination to Benskins Lane, which was further.

The driver explained this would cost more and the suspect agreed.

Upon arrival, the suspect stated he was not going to pay and that he was going to fight the victim.

The suspect attacked the driver by repeatedly hitting him in the face before biting his nose.

Following the attack, the suspect grabbed the mini-cab’s rear facing dash cam as well as cash and documents.

He then fled the scene down a footpath.

Detective Constable Gill Garrett, the investigating officer from the East Area Command Unit’s CID, said: "This was a brutal unprovoked attack that has left the victim extremely distressed and too shaken to return to work.

“He is still receiving medical treatment and has already undergone numerous surgical procedures.

"We have released an image of a man we would like to speak to in connection with this assault.

“We would urge anyone who recognises him to contact us as a matter of urgency.

“Any information provided to the police will be treated in confidence, or people can speak to Crimestoppers anonymously.

"We are calling on the public and the media to help us find and bring the person responsible for this heinous crime to justice."

Anyone with any information is asked to call East Area CID on 020 8345 3512 or 101 quoting reference 9391/26May.

People can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.