Taxi drivers launch video to highlight signs of child sexual exploitation

The video, called Deceived, aims to educate drivers and make them aware if they are carrying any vulnerable passengers and to encourage them to report any possible crime.

Shaz Saleem, chairman of Dudley Private Hire and Taxi Association, wrote, produced and directed the piece with the help of fellow drivers.

He said: "This is by far the most important piece of work the association has done.

"Recently, we signed a pledge to tackle this crime but we want our actions to speak louder. The association is committed to ensuring the safety of our customers and we will not shy away from our role.

"Personally I want to thank everyone who has supported Deceived, from the cast to those who have advised and guided us throughout the project. "

Music was created by Falcon Taxis driver, Waqas Rizwan, with the role of the driver played by Amran Hussain from Express Taxis in Halesowen. Lucy is played by Rianna Edwards.

Earlier this year the association created a video to make customers aware of the difference between a private hire car and a Hackney cab as part of its Be Safe Campaign.

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: "The only way to tackle hidden crimes is to bring them out of the darkness into the light and confront them head on. This DVD does exactly that.

"I am sure it will be a valuable tool in our battle against this most hideous of crimes.

"I will ensure West Midlands Police remains 100 per cent committed to tackling Child Sexual Exploitation.

"The number of specialist officers in the Public Protection Unit has already increased from 300 to more than 800 and I will continue to invest in it.

"Our main priority is protecting the most vulnerable members of our society."

Rachel Hopper, the West Midlands' CSE regional implementation officer, added it was great to see such active involvement by association.