Summary: Sadiq Khan is facing growing criticism after refusing to back a London bus driver who was sacked for stopping a thief and protecting a passenger. Despite unanimous support from the London Assembly and overwhelming public backing, the Mayor has remained silent, leaving many asking why standing up for victims still seems optional at City Hall.
Assembly Unites While Mayor Says Nothing
The London Assembly has unanimously praised bus driver Mark Hehir, who was dismissed after intervening to stop a thief who stole a passenger’s necklace. According to GB News, the non-binding motion passed yesterday piles pressure on Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has so far refused to publicly comment or offer support.
The silence is striking. Every party at City Hall backed the motion, yet the Mayor has declined to say a word. For many Londoners, that gap speaks louder than any statement.
What Actually Happened On The Bus
The incident took place on June 25, 2024, when Hehir was driving the 206 bus from Wembley to Maida Vale. A tribunal heard that a man boarded the bus, stole a necklace from a female passenger, and fled.
Hehir chased the thief, recovered the necklace, and returned it to the shaken passenger. The situation escalated when the man came back and threw the first punch. Hehir responded, knocking the man unconscious and restraining him until police arrived.
Both men were arrested, but Hehir was released without charge. Despite that, he was suspended the next day and later sacked for bringing the bus company into disrepute.
Public Support Grows As Khan Holds Back
A petition to reinstate Hehir has attracted more than 130,000 signatures, while a public crowdfunder has raised over £39,000. Conservative figures at City Hall have openly backed him, calling his actions brave and decent.
Speaking to GB News, Hehir said he hoped the Mayor would finally speak up, describing Khan’s silence as “disappointing”. Supporters argue this is not about politics, but about whether people who stand up to crime are punished instead of protected.
What This Says About London’s Leadership
The case has struck a nerve because it reflects a wider frustration. Ordinary people see crime rise, authorities urge restraint, and those who intervene are left to face the consequences alone.
Sadiq Khan’s refusal to comment, even as the Assembly and public rally behind the bus driver, reinforces the perception of a leadership class detached from everyday reality. For many Londoners, the question is simple. If stopping a thief and defending a frightened passenger earns silence from City Hall, what message does that send to everyone else?
