Mbombela (Nelspruit) – Police in Mpumalanga have arrested two male suspects in connection with the arson attack at four Putco depots, where at least 51 buses and service vehicles burned to cinders.
Police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli said two men aged 29 and 37 had been arrested in connection with the torching of buses in Nkangala District, Mpumalanga, on Monday, (27 January 2025).
“The suspects were apprehended this evening, (Tuesday, 28 January 2025), following a coordinated effort by the team that was assembled under the leadership of the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SA Police Service in Mpumalanga, Major General, Dr. Zeph Mkhwanazi,” the police spokesperson said.
On the night of the arson attack, armed individuals travelling in a white Toyota Quantum, Vito Minibus, and a VW Polo were seen setting fire to the buses at various Putco bus depots in the area.
“This resulted in the destruction of 16 buses in Moloto (within Kwamhlanga Policing Precinct) and 35 buses in Siyabuswa Policing Precinct (Thabane and Maphotla),” said Brigadier Mdhluli.
During the incidents, Putco employees were assaulted, with one security guard sustaining a gunshot wound.
The wounded guard was receiving medical treatment at a local hospital.
Brigadier Mdhluli said one of the suspects was found in possession of a mobile phone belonging to one of the victims, as well as a magazine for a 9mm pistol without ammunition.
“The Police are convinced that these two individuals were allegedly involved in the bus depot incidents and further investigations are ongoing,” said Brigadier Mdhluli.
Major General Mkhwanazi commended the investigators for the swift arrests.
“We are encouraged by the achievement made so far and we hope that the team will continue to bring more results going forward,” said Major General Mkhwanazi.
The suspects will soon appear in court.
Investigtions continue.
