Increased police presence after 51 Putco buses torched
Police in Mpumalanga have stepped up their presence after more than 50 Putco buses were set alight in the Nkangala District on Monday evening.
Reports indicate that around 15 suspects, dressed in black and wearing balaclavas, stormed the Moloto bus depot, holding employees at gunpoint.
Sixteen buses were torched in Kwamhlanga, 35 buses in Siyabusa, 18 in Maphotla and 17 in Thanane.
Two employees were injured in the attack, with one shot in the leg and the other struck with a chair.
In Maphotla, about 10 suspects assaulted a security guard before setting 18 buses on fire.
In Thabana, another 10 suspects torched 17 buses.
Acting Provincial Commissioner Zeph Mkhwanazi said a team of investigators have already been set up to investigate the incidents.
"From what we have gathered so far, is that this incident appears to have been well orchestrated. We are confident the team that we put together…will make some arrests,” said Mkhwanazi.
Meanwhile, Thulasizwe Thomo, Mpumalanga MEC for Public Works, Roads, and Transport, said the impact on commuters would be severe.
"This incident is not only a loss for the bus company but also a severe setback for our communities who depend on this public transport service for their daily commuting," said Thomo.
"The impact on our residents, particularly in the Nkangala District, cannot be overstated."
Thomo announced plans for a site visit and meeting with the bus company's management to discuss measures aimed at minimising service disruptions.
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