MINING companies Anglo American Platinum (Amplats) and African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) condemned a “senseless” attack on employees on April 2 in which six lost their lives and a further 44 employees were receiving medical attention.
The employees were attacked whilst being transported on a bus from Modikwa Platinum Mine, which Amplats and ARM share, to the Ga-Maroga village when the vehicle was set alight by unknown individuals, ARM said in a statement today. “The partners, along with Modikwa Mine management, are deeply saddened by this incident and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased,” it said.
The companies were providing the employees and families affected by the attack “… with support to get through this difficult time and wish the injured a full recovery”.
The South African Police Services (SAPS) has launched an investigation into the incident. “Modikwa Mine management is working closely with SAPS and other local stakeholders to assist in the investigation and to the ensure safety of our employees,” ARM said.
The Chamber of Mines said the events of that night would be felt for years to come. “These events are particularly shocking given the gruesome and merciless nature of this attack on innocent people,” it said in a statement. “The level of brutality of this attack is inconceivable and the impact of this act of violence will be felt for many years to come, not only by those who survived the incident, but also by those left behind,” it added.
Earlier today the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) expressed its shock at the incident which it said was caused by a petrol bomb thrown at the vehicle. The attack had happened at about 10pm, it said. “There have been a number of incidences in Burgersfort and surrounding areas recently that led to road closures and trucks burned down. The NUM is worried that the police are not arresting the perpetrators of these violent acts,” it said.
