Putco Bus Arson Attacks
By Mpho Moloi
Two additional suspects have been arrested in connection with the torching of 51 Putco buses in Mpumalanga. The suspects, aged 31 and 33, were apprehended on Tuesday and are expected to appear before the Mdutjane Magistrate’s Court in Siyabuswa on Wednesday. This brings the total number of arrests related to the incident to four. 
The arrests follow a series of violent attacks in January, where armed individuals, dressed in black and wearing balaclavas, stormed multiple Putco depots in the Nkangala District. During these attacks, 51 buses were set ablaze, and two employees were injured—one was shot in the leg, and another was struck on the head with a chair. 
Police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects have been charged with malicious damage to property. He added, “It is expected that further details regarding their involvement in the crime will be revealed during the court proceedings.” 
The acting provincial commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, welcomed the arrests and commended the investigation team for their diligent work. He emphasized the importance of holding all individuals involved accountable to maintain law and order in the province. 
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy condemned the torching of the Putco buses, labeling the act as “economic sabotage.” She highlighted the vital role the bus industry plays in the mobility of the workforce in the country. 
Despite the significant damage, Putco has continued its operations in the affected areas under heightened supervision. The company has been cooperating fully with law enforcement authorities in the ongoing investigations. 
The motive behind the attacks remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward to assist in bringing all perpetrators to justice.
The torching of the buses has had a substantial impact on commuters in the region, disrupting daily transportation and causing significant financial losses. The estimated damage from the arson attacks is around R250 million.
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