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Transport Ministry Condemns Torching of PUTCO Buses as “Economic Sabotage”

NEWS
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The Transport Ministry condemned the torching of fifty Putco buses that occurred on Monday, 27 January 2025, describing the attack as “economic sabotage.(Photo credits: SAPS)

The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa have condemned in the strongest terms the torching of 50 Public Utility Company (PUTCO) buses on Monday night, 27 January. The incident was confirmed by the bus operator as a deliberate act of aggression.

Two employees were reportedly injured during the attacks. One victim was shot in the leg, while the other was struck on the head with a chair. PUTCO spokesperson, Lindokuhle Xulu, confirmed the occurrence of arson attack in four of their depots across the Mpumalanga province.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) released a statement on Tuesday regarding the attack. They ensured that they are investigating multiple charges, such as malicious damage to property, attempted murder, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said 16 buses were burnt in Moloto, KwaMhlanga and 35 were torched in the Siyabuswa area.

Describing the attack as an act of “economic sabotage,” Minister Creecy emphasized the critical role of the bus industry in maintaining workforce mobility. The disruption, she warned, could have dire consequences for commuters and the broader economy.

PUTCO is reportedly one of the most used transportation systems, transporting over 2000 commuters a day, with its biggest operation being in Mpumalanga.

The Minister has directed the Department to arrange an urgent meeting with the National Joint Operational Intelligence Structure (NATJOINT) to address the issue and formulate an appropriate coordinated response.

The Transport Ministry stressed that disrupting the company’s operations could negatively affect commuters in Mpumalanga, who depend on the bus service to travel to Gauteng every day.

Law enforcement agencies are urged to take all the necessary measures to bring those responsible to account.

The Department will keep supporting any actions aimed at preventing sabotage of the country’s public transport system.


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