A taxi smashed into a Wellington house early this morning after two passengers assaulted the driver in an attempt to steal his money.
It is the latest in a string of recent robberies and attacks on taxi drivers, including the murder of Auckland driver Hiren Mohini, who was stabbed by a passenger before crashing his car into a tree.
Detective Sergeant Michael Priston, of Wellington, said the driver picked up two men from a taxi rank in Johnsonville about 2.45am.
The men set upon the driver and tried to steal his money when they reached their Woodland Rd destination about five minutes later.
The driver then lost control of the car and crashed into a house.
He was treated for injuries by ambulance staff.
The men were last seen running toward Frankmoore Ave.
Mr Priston said they were about 180cm tall, aged about 20 years, and of Maori or Polynesian descent. Both were wearing black clothing.
Police are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or any suspicious activity in the area, or who might be able to identify the men.
- NZPA
Taxi smashes into house after attempted robbery
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