Violent Attack on Public Transport Sparks Calls for Action Against Economic Sabotage
Mpumalanga police make swift arrests
Two suspects, aged 29 and 37, have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the torching of 50 Putco buses across four depots in Mpumalanga. The violent incident occurred on Monday night, leaving two employees injured, one with a gunshot wound to the leg and another struck on the head with a chair.
The suspects were apprehended on Tuesday following an intensive investigation led by Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, acting provincial commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga. During the arrest, police recovered a mobile phone belonging to one of the victims and a 9mm pistol magazine, further linking the suspects to the crime.
Coordinated attack on Putco depots
The ambush unfolded in the KwaNdebele region of the Nkangala District Municipality, where armed suspects driving a white Toyota Quantum targeted security personnel before torching the buses. The incident affected operations across four depots, significantly disrupting Putco’s services.
Investigations and potential further arrests
Brigadier Donald Mdhluli confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with police hopeful about additional arrests. “We are encouraged by the achievements made so far and hope the team will continue to bring more results going forward,” said Mkhwanazi.
Impact on public transport and commuters
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy condemned the attack, calling it an act of “economic sabotage.” The Putco bus service is essential for transporting 200,000 commuters daily across Gauteng, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga. Creecy emphasized the dire consequences of disrupting these operations and has called for urgent interventions.
The transport department has engaged the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) to develop an integrated response to prevent future attacks. Creecy’s spokesperson, Collen Msibi, reassured commuters of continued support to safeguard the country’s public transport system.
Also read: Putco Bus Arson Suspects to Receive ‘Prayer and Salvation’ After Arrest
