In Tomsk, a shocking incident unfolded inside a taxi when a passenger attempted to choke the driver during a ride, according to observers cited by the Telegraph channel District-70 Tomsk. Eyewitnesses confirm the incident occurred at the intersection of Sibirskaya Street and Komsomolsky Prospekt. As the car moved, the driver reported that the vehicle swerved sharply and drifted into the opposite lane, raising alarms about the passenger’s aggressive behavior. It soon became clear that the passenger had grabbed the driver by the neck and began to strangle him, leaving the driver unable to defend himself or steer the vehicle.
Multiple onlookers intervened to help. A mime, who happened to be present and briefly blocked by security personnel, assisted in restraining the attacker and removing him from the front seat. Video captured from another vehicle shows three individuals working together to pull the aggressive passenger away from the back seat as he resisted, creating a tense scene inside and around the taxi. The efforts of these bystanders were instrumental in stopping the attack and preventing further harm.
In the aftermath, authorities stepped in to assess the situation and support the driver, ensuring his safety and well-being after the frightening episode. The incident has sparked discussions about the safety of taxi workers and the need for protective measures that can help prevent similar confrontations in the future. While the immediate threat was neutralized, the event underscores the unpredictable dangers sometimes faced by transport professionals on everyday shifts.
Separately, sources noted that new regulations regarding the working hours of taxi drivers, particularly those operating as private individuals, had been outlined with a limited duration taking effect in September. This policy development is part of a broader effort to optimize service quality and driver welfare, though it also raises questions about how such rules influence real-world operations and safety practices for drivers and their passengers alike.
As investigations continue, authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and collecting testimonies from witnesses to reconstruct the sequence of events and identify any contributing factors. The community is reminded to exercise caution when using taxi services, to report any aggressive behavior promptly, and to cooperate with law enforcement if a similar situation arises. The collective aim is to ensure secure transportation for both drivers and passengers while maintaining clear channels for accountability and support in the wake of this alarming episode.