Mpumalanga police have made two more arrests in the investigation into the devastating arson attack on 51 Putco buses in the Nkangala District. The suspects, aged 31 and 33, are scheduled to appear at the Mdutjane Magistrate’s Court in Siyabuswa today, facing charges of malicious damage to property. The attack, which occurred on January 28, 2025, left the fleet of buses destroyed, posing a significant threat to public safety and disrupting essential transport services.
According to SAPS Mpumalanga spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, the arrests were made as part of a broader investigation into the well-coordinated attack. The suspects are believed to have played a crucial role in the planned destruction of the bus fleet, which resulted in substantial property damage. Their involvement adds to the growing list of individuals facing justice for the crime.
In January, two other suspects, Isaac Mabena (36) and Luthando Skosana (29), were arrested shortly after the incident. They appeared in court on February 6, with their case postponed for a formal bail application later this week. The police have stated that further details regarding the new suspects’ roles in the attack will emerge during the upcoming court proceedings.
The arrests have been welcomed by the acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS, General Zeph Mkhwanazi, who emphasized the importance of holding those responsible accountable. “This progress demonstrates our commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all involved in this attack are brought to justice,” Mkhwanazi said.
