More people linked to torching of 51 Pucto buses identified - Mpumalanga police
On Thursday, two men appeared before the Siyabuswa Magistrates Court in connection with the attacks at four different depots in January.
At least 50 Putco buses were gutted in arson attacks at four of the company's depots in Mpumalanga. Picture: X/VehicleTrackerz
SIYABUSWA - Mpumalanga police said they had identified more people linked to the torching of 51 Putco buses.
On Thursday, two men appeared before the Siyabuswa Magistrates Court in connection with the attacks at four different depots in January.
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Isaac Mabena and Luthando Skhosana face charges including arson and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
For now, the two remain behind bars, but police say they won’t be alone for long.
Investigators have zeroed in on more suspects, with arrests expected soon.
The damage left behind is immense, with an estimated R65 million in losses, including 51 buses, service vehicles, and infrastructure.
Two Putco employees were also injured in the attacks.
Provincial police spokesperson Donald Mdlhuli said the hunt for more perpetrators continues.
"There were many suspects involved in the torching of the buses, so the team is doing quite well to identify them."
Mabena and Skhosana will return to court next Thursday, but they may not be the only ones in the dock.