NUM calls for speedy resolution to Richards Bay Minerals standoff, to protest on Friday
JOHANNESBURG – The National Union of Mineworkers on Wednesday expressed concern at what it called the snail’s pace in finding a long-lasting resolution to the violence at titanium dioxide producer Richards Bay Minerals, which has been put under care and maintenance for an indefinite period.
KwaZulu-Natal based Richards Bay Minerals, a subsidiary of international mining corporation Rio Tinto, halted operations last week in the wake of mounting violence in surrounding communitites which saw one worker shot and injured.
On Wednesday, NUM said its members had over the past three weeks encountered road blockages and “ambush shootings” while on their way to work.
“Our member was shot at while travelling on the bus to work and till now no arrest has been made. We call upon law enforcement agency to do their job. NUM further calls for a speedy resolution to this ongoing problem to save the lives and jobs of our members,” the union’s KwaZulu-Natal regional secretary Muzikayise Zakwe said in a statement.
“We plead with all stakeholders to play their roles in ensuring that the environment is conducive for our members to go to work safely and the mining processes continue without any problems.”
Source: iol.co.za
