Police kill mining workers in self-defence in South Africa

More than 30 workers were killed and several were injured after striking miners near Lonmin Plc (LMI)’s Marikana platinum-mining complex in South Africa were shot at yesterday.

Violence at the mine continued to escalate and the death toll was provided by Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa during an interview with 702 Talk Radio based in Johannesburg.

 A press conference with further details is expected to be held by Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega to reporters at the mine later today.

Tear gas and live ammunition used by police sparked the violence among thousands of workers who had gathered on a hilltop during their strike.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate is investigating claims made by the police that their actions were done in self-defence after workers attacked them.

During his interview, Mthethwa said the police had no other option but to strike back.

At least 10 people have already been killed during a six-day work stoppage at the Marikana mine and the company LMI blamed the eruption of violence on fighting between rival labour unions.