NPA says it has strong case against pair accused of torching 51 Putco buses

SIYABUSWA - The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said it had a strong case against two men accused of torching 51 Putco buses in Mpumalanga as their bid for bail hit another delay.  

Isaac Mabena and Luthando Skhosana returned to court on Thursday facing multiple charges, including aggravated robbery, malicious damage to property, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.  

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The State argued for a postponement, saying it needed more time to verify their bail information.

Mabena and Skhosana stood before the court, tense but determined to secure their release.

Although the argument stage wasn’t reached, the two made their intentions clear — they want to go home. 

But the State isn’t budging, as prosecutors insisted that the accused posed a flight risk and believed that the evidence against them was strong enough to keep them behind bars.

Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Donald Mdlhuli, said officers were still following leads. 

"The investigation is still ongoing. There is a team working on this. Remember, it doesn’t only affect Siyabuswa."

For now, the accused remain in custody, returning to court next Thursday.