First introducing Revenue Protection Officers in Norfolk and Suffolk

First is to introduce Revenue Protection Officers on its buses in Norfolk and Suffolk from 17 June 2024.

The Officers are to ride on the operator’s bus network to ensure everyone is travelling with a valid/correctly-issued ticket. Those unable to show a valid ticket to travel or the required ID will result in Officers issuing a standard fare charge of £50.

The operator says the Officers have the right to confiscate tickets or passes if they are incorrectly used. There would be no refund available for any unused portion of the ticket. In the case of misuse of a concessionary pass, this would also be withdrawn and returned to the relevant local authority issuer.

The Officers are to be equipped with body-worn cameras, which may be switched on if a crime is committed, there are safety concerns or there is evidence of fraud being committed against First.

The Revenue Protection Officers are also tasked with helping ensure that any instances of anti-social behaviour are dealt with.