A MAJOR police operation is underway to protect cabbies after a spike in robberies.

Two taxi drivers were targeted by thieves in the past week, with three-figure sums stolen during each incident.

Police said the cabbies were left badly shaken by their ordeals - and one was threatened with a knife.

Chief Superintendent Gillian MacDonald said: "This is a particularly busy time of year for taxi drivers.

"My officers have been engaging with taxi companies, marshals and drivers to provide guidance and advice in relation to keeping themselves and their cash safe.

"I would urge drivers to be vigilant and to avoid any passengers who may be acting suspiciously and call the police immediately if you feel you are at all at risk."

Detectives are hunting a teenager who robbed a 51 year-old taxi driver last Wednesday evening.

He was dropping off the passenger in Warrix Avenue, Irvine, at around 6.40pm when he was threatened with a knife and forced to hand over his takings.

The suspect is described as a white male, with a local accent, and of slim build.

He was wearing a light-coloured hooded top.

Just hours later, a second cabbie was targeted in a separate incident.

The 55-year-old was allegedly robbed in North Hamilton Street, Kilmarnock, at around 1.10am on Thursday December 11.

A 25-year-old was arrested in connection with the incident.

Bill McIntosh, the General Secretary of the Scottish Taxi Federation, slammed the thieves as the "lowest of the low".

He said: "To rob taxi drivers at this time of year, particularly when their earnings are being relied upon to provide gifts for their own children and families, is reprehensible.

"I would urge all taxi drivers to take advice from the police, keep alert at all times and keep cash and change out of sight.

"It would be good advice to drop off your takings at regular intervals, so that you don't carry large amounts of cash at any one time.

"If any of your passengers are acting suspiciously, use your radio to call for assistance and get your radio base to contact police.

"If you are concerned with behaviour of any intended passengers, don't take them in the taxi and contact the police straight away.

"Do not put your own safety at risk under any circumstances." ·