A Canberra taxi driver cannot believe his misfortune after his $70,000 cab was destroyed less than a year after his teeth were knocked out in a vicious attack.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mohammad Hussain was woken by police in the early hours of December 10, to news that his maxi cab had been found burnt out in a pedestrian tunnel off Pethebridge Street, near Melrose High School in Pearce.
It had been left with a mechanic in Lyons earlier that evening, but police are yet to confirm if the vehicle was stolen.
It is the latest and most serious attack on the four cabs managed by Mr Hussain, who is now facing a replacement bill of $70,000 for the wheelchair accessible vehicle.
He said there was no comprehensive insurance on the destroyed vehicle, only the required third party policy.
“I have to pay it all,” he said.
“Everything is gone. I want justice. I have too much stress, too much trouble.”
The loss comes 10 months after Mr Hussain was viciously assaulted, spending the night in Calvary Hospital after being punched repeatedly in the face and neck in February.
He lost his teeth after his attacker landed four or five blows on his face, leaving him with dental bills close to $26,000.
“I want just peace,” he said.
“We came here to Australia for nice life, nice country. And now this.”
His wife Ivy said she fainted when she saw the damage, which was inflicted at the worst time of the year for the family.
“This is the only month the taxi business is good,” she said.
“All drivers wait for this month. It’s not fair.”
Police are investigating following the report lodged with officers at 3.10am on December 10.
An ACT Policing spokesman said it was yet to be determined if the vehicle had been stolen or not.
Anyone who can assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.act.crimestoppers.com.au.
Information can be provided anonymously.
