A man in his 30s who is a citizen of Uzbekistan is suspected of beating a 50-year-old taxi driver in the South Korean city of Hwaseong, according to local law enforcement.
The attack took place on Oct. 18 in the Hyangnam area. The suspect had reportedly tried to carry a passenger illegally in his own car. The taxi driver tried to stop him and film the violation, and was struck in the jaw. He lost consciousness and fell to the ground at the scene.
Footage from a vehicle camera shows the attacker continuing to kick and punch the unconscious man before leaving without giving first aid.
Police identified the suspect on Oct. 22 after reviewing surveillance camera footage. He is expected to be summoned for formal questioning soon, and the charge could be made more serious depending on the results of the victim’s medical report.
Local law enforcement said illegal passenger services arranged through Telegram groups are widespread in Hwaseong. In May, cases involving 29 foreigners, including citizens of Uzbekistan, who were engaged in such activity were referred to prosecutors.
Police and the immigration service plan to step up joint inspections and enforcement raids against illegal passenger transport before the end of the year.
