LOOK: Police investigate fire that destroyed ten Buscor buses in Barberton
Ten Buscor buses were destroyed in a fire at the company’s Barberton depot early on Wednesday.
Image: Supplied
Police in Barberton, Mpumalanga, have opened an inquiry after ten Buscor buses were destroyed in a fire at the Buscor depot on Wednesday morning.
The incident occurred around 1am on December 17, 2025, police confirmed.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said that, according to reports, one bus initially caught fire.
Security personnel responded and summoned firefighters, but the blaze quickly spread, engulfing nine more buses.
“In total, ten buses were affected,” Ndubane said.
“The circumstances surrounding this incident have not yet been established and will form part of the inquiry.”
Mpumalanga acting provincial police commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi said police would work tirelessly to determine the cause of the fire.
“We have taken note of the statement issued by the MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport. We will ensure that the established team works diligently, and for now, we cannot rule out any possibilities,” Mkhwanazi said.
Police have urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or submit tips via MYSAPSAPP. All information will be treated confidentially, and callers may remain anonymous.
Meanwhile, the MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport, Thulasizwe Thomo, expressed concern over the incident and confirmed that several Buscor buses were destroyed.
Mpumalanga police have opened an inquiry after ten Buscor buses were destroyed in a fire at the Buscor depot on Wednesday morning.
Image: Supplied
Thomo said he was relieved that no injuries or loss of life had been reported.
“The safety of workers, commuters and surrounding communities in Barberton and neighbouring areas remains the foremost priority of the Department,” he said.
Thomo added that the department had engaged Buscor management to assess the extent of the damage and to receive assurances on contingency measures to minimise disruptions to public transport services, particularly for commuters relying on Buscor buses during the festive period.
“The department is awaiting a full report from Buscor, including preliminary findings on the cause of the fire, while relevant authorities conduct their investigations,” he said.
“As we move through this peak festive season, it is critical that all public transport operators heighten safety standards, ensure regular inspections of facilities and vehicles, and have clear emergency response plans in place,” Thomo said.
He called on commuters in and around Barberton to remain calm and assured them that the department would continue working closely with Buscor and other stakeholders to ensure continuity of services and public safety.
Thomo is expected to visit the scene of the incident.
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