A taxi driver based in Abingdon has spoken of his fears for his wellbeing following a racially motivated assault that occurred without warning.

The driver, employed by Kash Taxi, collected a white European pair aged in their 60s from the Abingdon taxi stand for a journey to Prince Grove at approximately 7.45pm on the evening of Sunday, March 22.

The motorist, a British national who also holds a position in information technology, spent his childhood and early years in Hyderabad, Telangana’s capital city in India.

He relocated to Britain in February 2010 to pursue postgraduate studies and has lived in Abingdon since 2014, also holding down a job at the Spar store on High Street.

When conversation turned to politics during the trip, specifically regarding the Iran-Israel situation, the driver indicated he was unable to engage with the topic.

He advised that the woman subsequently uttered a distressing remark concerning ongoing global conflict while her male companion voiced radical political opinions, launching severe critiques at immigrants and making derogatory comments about political leaders.

When questioned about his ethnic background, which appeared to provoke the male passenger, the driver maintained his composure and conducted himself professionally throughout.

Upon reaching the destination, the man forcefully shut the vehicle door and directed repeated profanities at the driver, interspersed with racist abuse.

Shortly after the woman pushed her partner into the property, he emerged through a different entrance and attempted to rush towards the driver while yelling aggressively.

The driver departed the scene, concerned for his safety and the possibility of physical violence.

He characterised the occurrence as a shameful, unprovoked assault that questioned his national identity and faith, motivated by an antagonistic stance towards newcomers to the country.

He stated that the pair had provided him with the most distressing experience of his existence. He said the offenders voiced extremist perspectives, implying that global tensions excuse prejudice at home. He noted this reasoning is not only illogical but completely indefensible.

He stated that his family had been profoundly distressed by this breach of their sense of security. He emphasised they pay taxes, live as neighbours, and obey the law while making valuable contributions to the town. He asserted their entitlement to move freely through the streets without fear should not depend on acceptance from bigoted individuals.

He is urging members of the public to inform authorities about hate crimes.

He stated that anyone subjected to harassment or witnessing it against relatives should contact emergency services on 999 without delay to report a hate crime.

He expressed that the community must make its voice heard, or there is a danger that families will become too afraid to venture outside their own residences.

Thames Valley Police has confirmed it is examining the public order incident that included racial aggravation at an enhanced level. Officers have advised that no detentions have yet been made regarding the case.

Those with relevant information are being asked to get in touch with police, quoting the reference number 43260141168.