PREMIER NDLOVU PRAISES POLICE FOR THE ARREST OF SUSPECTS INVOLVED IN BUS ARSON CASES

29 January 2025

The Premier of Mpumalanga, Mr. Mandla Ndlovu, has praised the police for arresting two suspects connected to the bus arson case that occurred on Monday night. The suspects are believed to be part of a group that set fire to fifty-one (51) Putco buses at the Kwamhlanga and Siyabuswa depots.

Premier Ndlovu praised the police for their swift action that resulted in the recent arrest. “This arrest reflects a high level of commitment from the police, specifically under the leadership of Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Services (SAPS), Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi. He brought together a team of investigators to track down the suspects,” emphasized Mr. Ndlovu.

The Premier insists that the recent arrest serves as a strong indication that all suspects will be apprehended soon. “The destruction of the buses is a barbaric act that cannot be tolerated. We see this heinous crime as a declaration of hostility against our people, who rely on these buses for their daily commutes,” Mr Ndlovu warned.

The Premier stated that the cruelty of the suspects in committing such a heinous crime, resulting in injuries to two security guards in separate incidents, will be met with a strong response from the police. He emphasized the need for an intensified investigation so that the remaining suspects could face the might of the law, for malicious damage to property, attempted murder, and assault. “The attack on the security personnel was an attempt to intimidate them. We wish the two guards a speedy recovery and commend them for standing their ground in the face of a serious threat to their lives,” the Premier said.

Mr. Ndlovu is urging community members with information that may lead to the arrest and prosecution of all the suspects, to come forward and report the crime as soon as possible. (The crime stop number is 08600 10110). He says the information will be treated with confidentiality.

The Provincial Government, led by MEC Thulasizwe Thomo of Public Works, Roads and Transport, and MEC Jackie Macie of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, will visit the affected bus depots on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.

ENDS...


Issued by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government

Spokesperson – Public Works, Roads and Transport: Gear Dlamini
Tel: (013) 766 6850
Mobile: 079 293 6515
E-mail: fdhlamini@mpg.gov.za

Spokesperson – Community Safety, Security and Liaison: Moeti Mmusi
Tel: (013) 766 1577
Mobile: 079 291 0664
E-mail: mmmusi@mpg.gov.za

Provincial Government’s Spokesperson: George Mthethwa
Tel: (013) 766 2242
Mobile: 083 302 2774
E-mail: gpmthethwa@mpg.gov.za