Barberton depot fire: 10 buses destroyed, police launch inquiry

Police in Mpumalanga have opened an inquiry after ten buses caught fire at a depot in Barberton on Wednesday.

It is understood that one of the buses caught fire before the flames spread, igniting the other nine vehicles parked nearby. While the exact circumstances surrounding the incident have not yet been established, no injuries have been reported.

Local authorities have vowed to work closely with the bus company, Buscor, to mitigate disruptions for commuters during the busy festive season.

Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Donald Mdhluli, confirmed that a specialised team is currently on-site to determine the cause of the blaze.

“There is a team of experts that have been assembled to work around the clock and establish circumstances surrounding this incident where 10 buses were burnt. For now, we don't suspect any foul play. However, we cannot rule out any possibility,” said Mdhluli.