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47 Putco buses burned in depot attack

  • Security guards were tied up and two workers were hurt as attackers went on the rampage at four bus depots in Mpumalanga.
  • Bus company Putco says it will keep running services but with extra security after Monday night’s attacks.

A gang went on a burning spree and torched 47 buses at four Putco depots in Mpumalanga on Monday night.

The attackers first struck at the Moloto depot, where they tied up security guards before setting buses on fire and shooting inside the depot, Putco spokesperson Lindokuhle Xulu said.

Two workers were hurt in the attack: one was shot in the leg, while another was hit on the head with a chair.

“The rampage spread throughout the night, with additional depots reporting buses set on fire. In total, approximately 47 buses were burned across the following affected depots: Moloto, Wolwekraal, Siyabuswa, and Vaalbank,” said Xulu, News24 reported.

Despite the damage, Putco buses will still run in these areas but with more security watching over them.

“The company is fully cooperating with law enforcement authorities in the ongoing investigations,” said Xulu.

Mpumalanga Public Works, Roads and Transport MEC Thulasizwe Thomo has called on the police to investigate thoroughly.

“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 daily commuting,” he said. “The impact on our residents, particularly in the Nkangala District, cannot be overstated.”

Thomo expressed concern about how the attacks will affect people who rely on Putco buses to get to work.

“We urge anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward and assist law enforcement,” he said. “We must work together as a community to ensure the safety and reliability of our transportation systems.”

Pictured above: The buses are on fire.

Source: X