Auckland taxi driver's alleged attackers captured on CCTV

  • 16/06/2017

Warning: This video contains audio which may disturb some people.

Police have released images of three men who savagely beat a taxi driver in Auckland after they didn't have money for the fare.

The attack in the Southmall carpark in Manurewa around midnight on April 18 left driver Vineet Mahajan with a variety of injuries having been kicked in the torso and punched in the face.

Auckland taxi driver's alleged attackers captured on CCTV
Photo credit: Supplied / NZ Police

The day after the savage attack, Mr Mahajan told Newshub everything started when he asked the trio if they had money for the fare - something he does with every customer at that time of day.

"I asked them to get out of my taxi or I'd have to call the cops.

"As soon as I mentioned the cops, they started beating me up."

During the attack, the three demanded Mr Mahajan give them his phone and wallet which were in his pocket; they didn't give him a chance to hand them over.

Auckland taxi driver's alleged attackers captured on CCTV
Photo credit: Supplied / NZ Police

"I said, 'I'll give you whatever I have, take it. Just leave me.'"                                                            

He pushed the duress alarm which sent back Mr Mahajan's location to head office.

Audio of the assault is confronting. A scuffle can be heard, with thumps - kicks and punches, blows being landed on Mr Mahajan's face and body - clearly audible.

They can also be heard swearing and yelling racial abuse.

Auckland taxi driver's alleged attackers captured on CCTV
Photo credit: Supplied / NZ Police

Police are now asking the public for help in identifying those responsible and have released three CCTV images from inside the taxi.

Anyone who does recognise the three should call Constable Amit Prasad from Manurewa Police on (09) 261 1300, anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or a private Facebook message to the Counties Manukau Police page.

Newshub.