R69 Million worth of buses up in flames in coordinated attack 

Rustenburg – In the early hours of Tuesday morning, 1 October 2024, a total of 23 buses were reduced to ashes in a suspected arson attack. The buses, with an estimated combined value of R69 million, were destroyed in a coordinated strike across two Bojanala Bus Depots within a span of 20 minutes.

At Chaneng Bojanala Bus Depot, six buses were torched, while at Tlaseng Bojanala Bus Depot, 17 buses were set ablaze. The possible motive behind the attack stems from the expulsion of 76 bus drivers since June for theft and other related offenses, with additional drivers currently facing disciplinary hearings.

Police are investigating cases of malicious damage to property, though no arrests have been made yet.

The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, condemned the attack and urged the police to prioritise their investigation. “We trust our police to investigate this matter thoroughly, but it’s also crucial for the public to share any information that could assist in solving this case,” said Morweng.

He further expressed concern about the impact of the attack on the community, as the Bojanala Bus Company provides vital subsidised commuter services to residents across the Bojanala District. “This unfortunate incident will undoubtedly affect the daily lives of community members who rely on these buses,” added the MEC.

The police are calling on anyone with information to come forward. Individuals can contact captain Johannes Montsho of the Phokeng Detectives Unit at 076 834 3531 or the SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the MySAPS app.

Photos: Flames engulf Bojanala buses in a devastating arson attack, leaving 23 vehicles reduced to ashes.