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Deceased taxi driver Hiren Mohini - Source: ONE News -
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Slain Auckland taxi driver Hiren Mohini is expected to have a funeral cortege of up to 400 cabs on Thursday as police continue the hunt for his killer.
Hundreds are expected at the Waikumete Cemetery for the funeral of the 39-year-old father of two young girls who was stabbed to death by a passenger in the Auckland suburb of Mt Eden on Sunday morning.
The attacker fled and police, who describe the killing as a "particularly vicious, brutal and frenzied attack", have appealed for help in finding the attacker.
Mohini has been described as a "gentle giant" and devoted family man. He leaves a wife, Falguni, and two young children.
Police have urged motorists to be patient as the hundreds of taxis travel to the cemetery just before midday Thursday.
"Motorists are advised that there will be inevitable traffic delays as a result. Please be patient, and where possible, use other routes between 11.45am and 1pm," says Inspector Turepu Keenan from the police Northern Communications Centre in Auckland.
The killing has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from family and friends and fellow taxi drivers and the company says new procedures will be put in place to keep drivers safe.
Barry White, general manger of Auckland Co-op Taxis, says the focus now is ensuring Mohini's family have all the support it needed.
However, he also says driver safety is paramount and the company will move quickly.
New safety measures could include screens, cameras and flak jackets or protective clothing.
Police say the team hunting for his killer has been increased to 40 and every resource is being made available.
Police urge people to call the homicide hotline on 0800 444 014 or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.
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