By REGINALD KANYANE
28 January 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Transport said it has noted with concern media reports on Tuesday that 47 Putco buses were torched the previous evening and into the night. The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Donald Selamolela said this was a senseless act, as it destroyed services that people need to link up with economic opportunities.
“Vandalism has cost the transport sector dearly and it is condemned with the seriousness it deserves. In this time and age, when we are talking about broadening all forms of transportation including aviation, it is shocking that there are people who still think they could burn buses.
“It is a sad day in South Africa. Our rail transportation is challenged throughout the country, but the government is working hard to have trains back on rails, yet we are experiencing this kind of uncouthness,” said Selamolela.
He further said the media reported on Tuesday that 47 Putco buses had been torched at various depots in Mpumalanga. Selamolela added that, however, this number has since been revised upwards to 50.
“This was an act of economic sabotage and we call on Putco Bus Company to investigate to determine who is behind this heinous crime against all South Africans. The committee will always advocate for the peaceful resolution of challenges and disputes.
“We continue to be committed to affordable, safe and efficient public transport. Law enforcement must leave no stone unturned in arresting and bringing to justice whoever is behind this mess,” he said.
Selamolela said this is an economic crime and the worst form of sabotage that should never be tolerated, whatever the cause was.
The Guardian 