SIYABUSWA – The bail application of four suspects accused of torching 51 Putco buses has been abandoned.
Steven Mthombeni (27), Mduduzi Masango (31), Luthando Trevor Skhosana (29), and Isaac Mabhena (29) appeared briefly in the Mdutjana Magistrate’s Court in Mpumalanga on Wednesday, 19 February, facing charges of malicious damage to property, business robbery, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
In a new development, the suspects opted to remain in custody until their trial. Two were arrested two days after the buses were torched, on January 29, while the other two were arrested on February 11.The incident caused more than R250 million in damages to Putco.
Mpumalanga MECs for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, and Public Works, Roads and Transport, Jackie Macie and Thulasizwe Thomo, visited the Putco bus depot in Mpumalanga on Wednesday, January 29, following the incident.
Macie praised the police for their swift arrests and expressed confidence in their continued efforts to crack the case and bring those involved to justice.
“This incident is not just sabotage against Putco, but against the economy of the province, as many people rely on the bus company to reach their workplaces and destinations,” said Macie.
He also called for calm in the Nkangala region as police investigate, assuring that every effort will be made to ensure the perpetrators face the law.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Monica Nyuswa confirmed that the accused informed the court of their decision to abandon their bail applications.
“The matter was postponed to Thursday, April 10, for further investigations,” said Nyuswa.
