Parliament, Tuesday, 28 January 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Transport has noted with concern media reports on Tuesday that 47 Putco busses were torched the previous evening and into the night.
Committee Chairperson Mr 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 busses,” said Mr Selamolela.
“It is a sad day in South Africa. Our rail transportation is challenged throughout the country, but government is working hard to have trains back on rails, yet we are experiencing this kind of uncouthness,” he continued.
The media reported on Tuesday that 47 Putco buses had been torched at various depots in Mpumalanga. However, this number has since been revised upwards, to 50. Mr Selamolela said this was an act of economic sabotage and he called 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,” Mr Selamolela said.
“Law enforcement must leave no stone unturned in arresting and bringing to justice whoever is behind this mess. This is an economic crime and the worst form of sabotage that should never be tolerated, whatever the cause was,” Mr Selamolela said.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORT, MR DONALD SELAMOLELA.
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Name: Sibongile Maputi (Mr)
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E-mail: smaputi@parliament.gov.za
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