Livery Cab Safety Program

MYFOXNY.COM - In the wake of a rash of killings of livery cab drivers, the NYPD has launched a new effort to promote a longtime safety program, Commissioner Raymond Kelly announced.

The initiative is called Operation Safe Cab. Its goal is to encourage more livery car drivers to sign up for the NYPD's Taxi/Livery Robbery Inspection Program.

TRIP is a free program in which drivers affix a special decal to their cars that gives cops permission to inspect their car at anytime in order to ensure the driver's safety.

"The men and women driving livery cars and taxis around our city provide an important service in our neighborhoods," Kelly said. "By registering for the TRIP program these drivers help us do our job protecting their safety and security."

Fernando Mateo of the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers said drivers welcome the effort. Indeed, the NYPD said hundreds of drivers have signed up.

Police said they made an arrest in the shooting death of driver Ndiaye Amadau.