On Tuesday, 16 October 2012 between 09h00 and 09h30 Samanco, Kroondal mine workers in Rustenburg embarked on an illegal strike. The Police were called in who began to apply minimum force to disperse a strong group of unruly striking workers of about 3000. During the dispersement and effecting of arrest to illegal striking miners, a Police Constable was hacked with a panga on his left arm when he tried to protect himself from the attackers, who had cornered him. The Constable sustained serious injuries on his left arm. He was rescued by other Police Officers, who then rushed him to Pedlaray Hospital for medical treatment.
The Police have managed to arrest so far, about 26 striking mine workers, and further arrests are still expected. Police are monitoring the situation in the area. Amongst the arrested workers one have been identified as the possible attacker to the Police Officer and a charge of attempted murder has been registered against the suspect.
The North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant general Zukiswa Mbombo condemned the attack on a Police Officer as this happened immediately after the National commissioner of Police issued a statement condemning the attack and killing of Police Officers in the line of duty. She wished the Police Officer a speedy recovery.
Enquiries:
Brigadier Thulani Ngubane
Tel: 018 299 7039
Fax: 018 299 7109
Cell: 0823724511
Police hacked in Samanco Mine unrest
