NELSPRUIT – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga has intensified its visibility following a shocking incident in which 51 Putco buses were set ablaze in the Nkangala District on the night of Monday, 27 January 2025. The attack, carried out by armed suspects in a white Toyota Quantum, left two security guards injured and emergency services scrambling to contain the damage.
Coordinated Attacks Across Three Locations
According to reports, the attackers—wearing black clothing and balaclavas—targeted bus depots in KwaMhlanga and Siyabuswa, executing a well-coordinated assault:
📍 KwaMhlanga (Moloto area) – 15 suspects stormed a depot, held employees at gunpoint, and shot and injured a security guard before setting 16 buses on fire.
📍 Maphotla (Siyabuswa area) – 10 suspects assaulted a security guard and torched 18 buses before fleeing the scene.
📍 Thanane (Siyabuswa area) – Another 10 suspects set 17 buses alight, bringing the total damage to 51 buses destroyed.
Investigation Underway
SAPS, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel responded to the attacks, opening cases of:
- Malicious damage to property
- Attempted murder
- Assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm
So far, no arrests have been made, and authorities are working tirelessly to identify the motive and suspects behind the orchestrated attack.
SAPS Vows to Bring Perpetrators to Justice
Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi has condemned the attacks and deployed a special task force to investigate.
"From what we have gathered so far, this incident appears to have been well-orchestrated. We are confident in the team we have put together and will work around the clock to ensure the perpetrators are swiftly brought to book," said Major General Mkhwanazi.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or send a tip via MYSAPSAPP. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality, and callers may remain anonymous.
Impact and Public Concerns
The attack has sparked major transportation disruptions in Mpumalanga, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. The public transport sector, already under pressure, faces further strain as authorities work to restore services.
Stay tuned to HMR News Updates for the latest developments.
📧 Email: info@hmrnewsupdates.com
📞 Contact: +27 66 427 6676
© 2025 HMR News Updates. All Rights Reserved.
