ONE in every 10 of the regions taxis checked by Police wasn't fit for the road.
Out of 760 taxis and private hire vehicles stopped for roadworthiness checks, 97 were immediately suspended from operating, 143 were sent for further testing and 167 found to have defects.
Police also checked safety items like fire extinguishers and first aid kits and examined operating licences and driver documentation in a bid to crack benefit fraud.
Campaign co-ordinator Inspector Duncan Grundy said: "The standard displayed by the majority of drivers, particularly Hackney carriages, was very good and re-inforced our impressions of improving standards.
"GMP is keen to help rid the taxi industry of a minority of irresponsible drivers who abuse the system and give others a bad name.
"We want to ensure the public can continue to use taxis with confidence. We will certainly be repeating this operation."
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