Police last night charged two taxi drivers after one passenger was stabbed and another run over for apparently trying to get away without paying for their ride.
One of the customers was stabbed in the lower back and chest. His friend suffered a broken leg and possible internalinjuries after being hit by another taxi.
The incidents occurred after they and another young man caught a taxi to Racecourse Parade, Avondale, on Monday night.
The trio, all in their 20s, allegedly tried to run off without paying the fare, which was less than $10.
One of the men was allegedly stabbed by the driver. Two other taxi drivers later found the stabbed man's companions at the nearby Shell Service Station in Ash St.
One of the drivers allegedly hit one of the men with his taxi, inflicting leg and possible internal injuries.
The third passenger was arrested when police arrived at the service station. He has been charged with obtaining by deception for not paying the fare.
Police say neither of the two injured men - who both remain in hospital - has laid a complaint about the attack, so further details, including what weapon was used in the stabbing, are sketchy.
Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
The taxi drivers were jointly charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and are expected to appear in the Auckland District Court this morning.
