Mbombela (Nelspruit) – Law enforcement in Mpumalanga has apprehended two male suspects connected to the arson incident that impacted four Putco depots, resulting in the destruction of at least 51 buses and service vehicles.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, the two men, aged 29 and 37, were captured for their involvement in the torching of 51 Putco buses in the Nkangala District on Monday, January 27, 2025.
“The suspects were taken into custody this evening (Tuesday, January 28, 2025) following a coordinated operation overseen by Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi,” stated the police spokesperson.
On the night of the incident, armed individuals in a white Toyota Quantum, a Vito Minibus, and a VW Polo were reported to have set fire to the buses across different Putco depots in the area.
“This incident resulted in the loss of 16 buses in Moloto (located within the Kwamhlanga Policing Precinct) and 35 buses in the Siyabuswa Policing Precinct (Thabane and Maphotla),” shared Brigadier Mdhluli.
During these events, several Putco workers were assaulted, including a security guard who suffered a gunshot wound.
The injured guard is currently receiving medical care at a local hospital.
Brigadier Mdhluli noted that one of the suspects was discovered with a mobile phone belonging to one of the victims and a magazine for a 9mm pistol, though it was not loaded.
“The police are confident that these two individuals were involved in the bus depot incidents, and further investigations are ongoing,” remarked Brigadier Mdhluli.
Acting Provincial Police Commissioner Major General Dr. Zeph Mkhwanazi commended the investigators for their prompt actions leading to the arrests.
“We are pleased with the progress made thus far and anticipate more results from the team in the future,” expressed Major General Mkhwanazi.
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon.
Investigations are still ongoing.
