Marikana protests peaceful: Police

 "No serious incidents have been reported and we want to urge and request everybody to remain calm, disciplined and avoid any action that may lead to criminal prosecution," police spokesman Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone said.  

 

While measures had been taken to prevent people bringing weapons to the stadium, he was aware of reports that some marchers had done so and publicly displayed them.

 

 "The police will engage Amcu to ensure that those that are in violation of the law are identified, arrested and charged accordingly. "The deployment of police officials is done with a view to prevent crime, protect lives and properties and maintain public order."

 

 Earlier, some striking mineworkers were seen carrying sticks and sjamboks into the stadium.  Members of the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union at Lonmin in Marikana, Anglo American Platinum and Impala Platinum mines were pushing for an entry-level monthly salary of R12,500.

 

 On Tuesday, the companies said Amcu's wage demands were unaffordable and unrealistic. 

 

 Impala Platinum cancelled its Wednesday night shift at its Rustenburg operations and would continue to do so for the duration of Amcu's planned strike, the company said. This was to mitigate the risk of violence and to ensure the safety of employees.
  

 

-Sapa