Anderson Cooper Investigates: The Burning Of 50 Putco Buses In Mpumalanga
- Putco launches an investigation into a suspected arson case involving 50 buses torched across four depots in Mpumalanga.
- Two employees were injured during the violent attacks, and authorities remain uncertain about the motives behind the arson.
- Many South Africans suspect sabotage, pointing fingers at the taxi industry for potential involvement.
Tebogo Mokwena, a seasoned journalist with Briefly News, has spent seven years covering everything from accidents and fires to natural disasters for publications like Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, Mokwena brings a wealth of experience to the table.
MPUMALANGA — Picture this: the night of January 27, 2025. In the heart of Mpumalanga, chaos erupts as unknown assailants set fire to 50 Putco buses across four depots. This shocking act of arson has left the community reeling, with many suspecting that sabotage lies at the root of it all.
50 Putco Buses Go Up in Flames in Mpumalanga
The attacks unfolded in Moloto, Siyabuswa, Vaalbank, and Wolvekraal, where armed men dressed in black stormed the depots. Amid the chaos, two employees were injured, one shot in the foot and the other struck with a chair. According to Putco spokesperson Lindokuhle Xulu, the assailants ambushed and tied up the employees before unleashing havoc on the fleet. Using petrol bombs, they torched 50 buses, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
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What’s Putco’s Plan Moving Forward?
In the wake of this devastating attack, Putco is teaming up closely with law enforcement to uncover the motive behind the arson. While Xulu emphasizes that Putco won’t jump to conclusions, he acknowledges the ongoing tension between the bus service and local taxi associations. These associations have reportedly pressured Putco to halt operations during certain hours, but the company remains steadfast in its commitment to continue serving the public. To ensure safety, the South African Police Service will bolster patrols in high-risk areas.
History Repeats Itself: Other Incidents of Public Transport Arson
- In January 2023, angry residents of a KwaZulu-Natal community torched a bus and a truck during a protest against rising crime rates.
- Golden Arrow sought legal protection against the SA National Taxi Council after violent attacks on their buses, including several instances of arson.
- Reports emerged in November 2024 of taxis being set alight in the North West province, sparking fears of escalating violence in the transport sector.
Social Media Weighs In: What Are South Africans Saying?
As news of the arson spread, social media lit up with theories and accusations. Many users pointed fingers at taxi associations, suggesting they were vying for control over lucrative routes. Here’s what some commenters had to say:
TW Medin Kibebo remarked:
"This evil action may very well stem from local taxi associations."
Melusi chimed in:
"It reminds me of the early days after the lockdown was lifted. Trains were sabotaged, buses were robbed, and yet one mode of transport thrived."
Patrick Taele added:
"I strongly suspect this has ties to taxi owners."
Donovan Brown voiced his concerns:
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"It’s the taxi association again. They’ve targeted trains and now bus services. The government knows about this because some of them are complicit."
Oliver El-Che Moguru concluded:
"The motive remains unclear, but the culprits are likely linked to certain taxi associations."
University Chaos: UKZN Building Burns Amid Protest
In a related development, the University of KwaZulu-Natal faced its own share of turmoil when a section of its building was set ablaze during a student protest. The incident highlights the growing unrest in various sectors of society. Students expressed frustration over the university’s decision to cut bus services, leading to clashes with security personnel. Amid the chaos, the chemistry building became collateral damage, further straining an already tense situation.
