KWANDEBELE – PUTCO is recounting an estimated loss of close to R200 million following an arson attack in which 51 buses were torched at its Moloto depot on Monday, 27 January 2025.
The damages reportedly include the Smart YAP system and camera surveillance.
While the bus company is reeling from the incident, commuters have also been left stranded.
Letty Masemola (50) from Tweefontein E had already purchased a monthly ticket. She told Highveld Chronicle that she had to borrow R500 from friends to travel to work from Tweefontein E to Marabastad. “My heart was sore when I saw the burning buses on social media. I had to find a way to borrow money from my friends. On Tuesday, I had to use a taxi even though I had a monthly PUTCO ticket,” she said.
Paulinah Mabena (43) from KwaMhlanga said the incident almost cost her job. “I didn’t have money for transport for two days. Luckily, my boss understood. I would have lost my job otherwise.”
According to reports, a group of more than 10 men stormed the depots, assaulted a security guard, and then torched the buses.
It is also reported that 16 buses were burnt in KwaMhlanga, while 35 buses were reduced to ashes in Siyabuswa, including 18 in Maphotla and 17 in Thanane.
Two suspects have been arrested, with one reportedly found in possession of a mobile phone belonging to a victim, suggesting deeper involvement in the attack.
Isaac Mabena (29) and Luthando Trevor Skosana (37) appeared at Mdutjane Magistrate’s Court on January 30, 2025 and were remanded in custody. The case was postponed to February 6, 2025 for a formal bail application.
PUTCO general manager Danie Malherbe said the company is committed to restoring services and enhancing security measures. “We are raising additional security to protect our assets and are collaborating closely with the police,” he affirmed.
Malherbe also announced that 25 buses had been deployed to ensure smooth operations and minimise disruption for commuters. One of the leading bus operators in Mpumalanga, PUTCO transports an average of 200,000 commuters daily, with the majority travelling from the KwaNdebele area to Pretoria for work. This was a sigh of relief for already distressed passengers. “I’m happy if there are 25 buses. This will help us get to work on time. It’s not many, but it’s better than nothing,” said Njabulo Masombuka.
On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, Public Works, Roads, and Transport MEC Thula Thomo visited the Moloto depot alongside Mpumalanga Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Jackie Macie. “This act of sabotage has not only targeted PUTCO but has also harmed the livelihoods of our commuters and employees,” he said.
The MEC described the fire as a deliberate act that contradicts the collective goal of creating a sustainable and efficient transport system in Mpumalanga. “This incident was well-planned, and we are determined to gather all necessary evidence to hold those responsible accountable,” he said.
