SIX cabbies are to have their licenses reviewed after a clampdown on rogue taxis.

The private hire drivers were suspended for illegally touting for passengers after an operation by council officials, police and benefits staff.

Six more drivers are also being investigated for suspected social security fraud and two faulty taxis were taken off the road.

More check-ups are planned after Hackney cab drivers and passengers complained rogue private hire cabbies were roaming for business and charging improper fares.

Police, social security and licensing officers conducted checks on Wednesday, from 9pm to midnight.

Inspector Steve Howarth, of Blackburn Police, said: "It was a good exercise from which everybody benefits, including the public. The rules are there for good reason and the last things passengers want are unsafe taxis or drivers.

"We've had a lot of complaints from Hackney cab drivers about private taxis, which are only supposed to call at specific addresses when booked.

"If private taxis are driving around and taking business from Hackney cabs, this is illegal."

Blackburn with Darwen Council licensing spokesman, Sayyed Osman, added: "Six drivers were cautioned and questioned for plying for hire. They will now be referred to the licensing sub-committee.

"Police and licensing officers also undertook spot checks of private hire vehicles, resulting in two vehicles being suspended.

Throughout the evening, details of drivers were taken, resulting in six files being queried by the benefits investigation unit.

"Enforcement operations of this nature are just as much about helping the private hire and taxi trade as law enforcement.