Bus Driver Dismissed After Thief Incident Was Ukraine War Volunteer
A bus driver who faced dismissal after chasing a thief who snatched a passenger's necklace has been revealed as a hero volunteer who spent months aiding efforts in Ukraine following Russia's invasion. Mark Hehir, now 62, was driving the 206 route between Wembley and Maida Vale in June 2024 when the incident occurred, leading to his sacking by Metroline, the company he had worked for for two years.
Details of the Theft and Confrontation
During the journey, a man boarded the bus and snatched a necklace from around a woman's neck before fleeing. Mr Hehir, then 60, instinctively chased after the assailant, successfully returning the jewellery to the victim. He later reported that the thief returned to the bus to attack him, resulting in a scuffle where Mr Hehir punched the man in self-defence and restrained him until police arrived.
Although he was arrested at the scene, Mr Hehir was released without further police action. A police report supported his actions, stating that the force used was "proportionate and necessary in the circumstances in the defence of himself and the female passenger."
Disciplinary Action and Dismissal
Despite this, Metroline suspended Mr Hehir the day after the incident and conducted a disciplinary hearing. The company accused him of "bringing the company into disrepute by physically assaulting a passenger" and "failing to protect his and his passengers' safety by leaving the bus unattended with engine running and chasing an assailant."
Mr Hehir argued that he had acted instinctively, left the doors open, and applied the handbrake. However, the hearing, overseen by operations manager Alina Gioroc, questioned whether the thief returned to apologise and found the restraint excessive. A tribunal in Watford upheld the dismissal, citing gross misconduct based on reasonable grounds.
Revelation of Ukraine Volunteer Work
In a recent interview, Mr Hehir disclosed that he had volunteered in Ukraine after the war broke out in 2022, operating on the Poland-Ukraine border to transport people and supplies. He described the dangerous conditions, noting he was nearly a target and observed soldiers daily. "I went on my own," he said, highlighting his commitment to helping others in crisis.
Public and Political Backlash
The dismissal has sparked significant public outcry, with many defending Mr Hehir's actions. Residents and commentators have called for awards rather than punishment, with one stating, "I think the bus operator is disgraceful, the man should get a medal."
Politically, Shadow Justice Minister Dr Kieran Mullan MP has initiated a petition for Mr Hehir's reinstatement, arguing that his actions were justified and that punishing him for protecting a passenger is "plainly wrong." He emphasised the importance of supporting individuals who act rightly in difficult situations.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Debate
This case raises questions about corporate policies versus moral actions in emergencies. While Metroline maintains its stance on safety protocols, the public and political figures advocate for recognising heroism. The incident underscores the challenges faced by employees who intervene in crimes and the potential consequences of such decisions.
As the story develops, it continues to attract attention, highlighting tensions between institutional procedures and human instinct in moments of crisis.
