The police in Mpumalanga have increased their presence in response to an incident in which 51 Putco buses were set ablaze in the Nkangala District last night. It is alleged that a group of armed suspects driving a white Toyota Quantum were behind this act.

POLICE INVESTIGATIONS

Provincial SAPS spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli said 16 buses were burnt at KwaMhlanga, whilst 35 were set ablaze at Siyabuswa and Maphotla in Thanane. "Police are investigating various charges, including malicious damage to properties, attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm," he said. 

TAXI OPERATORS INVOLVED

In a statement, Putco spokesperson Lindokuhle Xulu said the bus company believes overnight attacks on its depots are due to tensions with taxi operators. Xulu said unfortunately only two of their employees were injured at their depots. "The violent attack resulted in two employees being injured. One was shot in the leg and the other was hit on the head with a chair," he said. Xulu added, "Putco has been dealing with mounting tensions with the taxi industry. For now, the company is continuing to render services with heightened security presence. The company is fully cooperating with law enforcement authorities in the ongoing investigations."