ARMED robbers directed a taxi driver to the Craylands Estate before robbing him.

Detectives are appealing for information after the premeditated knifepoint robbery.

It took place at about 9.30pm on Tuesday night.

Taxi firm A&B taxis fear the attack was planned after the cab was booked through a withheld number, before the passengers threatened the driver with a knife as he arrived at the destination.

The cab travelled from Exeter Close to Avon Way before the crooks escaped with less than £100 between them.

Company owner Gary Brand revealed he will have to decide how to respond with “driver’s safety paramount”.

He said: “The driver is very shaken, but he is okay, which is of course the most important thing.

“Obviously, we are hugely disappointed.

“At the moment, it does seem like it was a pre-meditated attack, because the people who booked called of a withheld number, and then obviously attacked when they reached the destination.

“Now, I think we are going to be a bit more careful, we may have to look at our customer policy and say we are not going to take any bookings unless people give their number.

“Our driver’s safety is paramount.

“I guess now we will have to be more vigilant to ensure our drivers are as safe as possible.

“Police have fingerprinted and the investigation is ongoing at this stage.”

Essex Police is investigating the incident, urging witnesses to come forward.

A spokesman said: “We were called shortly after 9.30pm on Tuesday, October 2 to reports of a robbery in Basildon.

“The victim, a taxi driver, reported he had collected two men from Exeter Close and had travelled to Avon Way.

“The victim was then threatened with a knife and a two-figure sum of cash was taken before the men made off on foot.

“If you have any information about the incident please call us on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/143123/18.”

Alternatively, contact dedicated crime fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 08000 555111, or online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously