Man died after being dragged 100 yards by fraudulent cab driver on Essex Road, Islington

Matab Uddin - jailed for causing death by dangerous driving (Image: Archant)

Matab Uddin, 59, was jailed for eight years on Thursday having been found guilty of causing the death of 27-year-old Oliver Farrell by dangerous driving.

The incident happened in the early hours of Sunday, November 17, 2013. Inner London Crown Court heard how Mr Farrell had spent the evening celebrating his brother’s birthday, and was making his way home from Old Street.

He was picked up by unlicensed Uddin, who had previous convictions for minicab touting.

A short while later, Mr Farrell got out of the cab to use a cash machine. However, Uddin drove off, leaving Mr Farrell in Essex Road.

CCTV showed Uddin returning a few minutes later, pulling up next to Mr Farrell, who leaned through the open passenger window.

Uddin then drove away at speed, while Mr Farrell clung to the car. After being carried along for about 100 yards, he lost his grip and fell to the ground, suffering what proved to be fatal head injuries after he died in hospital three days later.

Uddin made off from the scene. However, the incident was witnessed by a taxi driver driving behind Uddin, and he took down his registration number.

CCTV on Kingsland High Road also caught Uddin making a dangerous manoeuvre during his getaway, crossing a central reservation.

He was arrested in connection with the incident later that morning, after handing himself in at a north London police station.

Uddin, of Blackshots Lane, Essex, was also found guilty of fraud at the hearing.

Det Sgt Chris Osborne, of the Met’s serious collision investigation unit, said: “This case highlights the dangers posed by unlicensed minicabs. People trying to make their way home, especially late at night should only use pre-booked licensed minicabs or black cabs.

“This is a tragic case for all involved and it stemmed from the unscrupulous actions of Mr Uddin. Our investigation showed he was illegally touting and on this occasion drove off without any regard for Mr Farrell’s safety. He then failed to stop and made clear attempts to flee the scene.”

He added: “I would like to pay tribute to the Mr Farrell’s family, who have retained the utmost dignity throughout the whole investigation and court case. My thoughts remain with them.”

On behalf of Mr Farrell’s family, his brother, Ben, said: “Having to experience nearly two years to arrive at this position has been a hugely traumatic and terrible experience for us all.

“However, it is incomparable to the pain we have felt and will continue to feel from the fact that Oli’s future has been taken from him and that such a bright light in our own lives will never be with us again.

“No punishment will ever bring Oli back. However, we seek justice for the benefit of greater society to reduce the chances of other families having to experience what we have been through and will continue to go through.

“Oli was a fair man and would want nothing more and nothing less than this.”