The Mdutjane Magistrate’s Court has remanded Mduduzi Masango (31) and Steven Mthombeni (27) in custody following their arrest in connection with the torching of 51 Putco buses in KwaNdebele in January.

The suspects were arrested in Siyabuswa on February 11 and appeared in court on February 12. They are facing charges of malicious damage to property and are set to return to court on February 13 for a possible bail application.

Ongoing Investigation

Masango and Mthombeni are the latest suspects linked to the incident. They join Isaac Mabena (29) and Luthando Trevor Skosana (37), who were arrested on January 28, just a day after the buses were set ablaze.

Mabena and Skosana appeared in court on February 5, and their case was postponed to February 13, when they are expected to apply for bail.

Police Statement

Provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli confirmed that the arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into the January 27 attack on the bus fleet.

“The suspects are believed to have been involved in the co-ordinated attack on the buses, causing significant damage and posing a threat to public safety,” Mdhluli said.

The investigation continues, with authorities determined to hold all responsible parties accountable.