TAXI HOLD-UP

Evening Post, Volume CXXXVI, Issue 72, 22 September 1943, Page 6

TAXI HOLD-UP

MARINES APPREHENDED

Two marines have been apprehended, and confessions obtained, in connection with the attempted robbery of a local taxi-driver last Wednesday night. Two hats left in the taxi and information furnished by a New Zealand airman enabled United States military investigators to bring the men into custody within four. days. The New Zealand airman said that about midnight on Wednesday he talked' with two hatless marines, and during the conversation a certain surname was mentioned. However, it was discovered that 66 marines in this area had the same surname.

Neither of the two hats left in the taxi following the attempted hold-up gave any identification as to the marines who were wearing them. However, through the use of these. two leads and quick investigation by the military authorities, the two men involved are now being held awaiting action of a military tribunal. Mr. M. D. Rodden, 85 Tasman Street, a driver for Grey Cabs, Ltd., whose shouts drove off the assailants before they could rob him, was unable to identify the two men positively. The attempted robbery took place about 10 p.m. last Wednesday at the corner of Aro and Norway Streets. Cuts and bruises on the head were received by the taxi-driver. Both men stated that they determined upon the robbery about ten minutes before, catching the cab, and that although they had been drinking they were not intoxicated.

Three other United States marines involved in local taxi hold-ups occurring about a month ago are in custody, having been apprehended by marine investigators. They are awaiting action of a military tribunal.