Aquarius Platinum suspends operations after protesters demand closure

14 September 2012 - 18:39 By Sapa
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Aquarius Platinum Kroondal mine.
Aquarius Platinum Kroondal mine.
Image: http://aquariusplatinum.com/

Aquarius Platinum suspended operations on Friday, as police swooped on striking protesters outside.

"Aquarius Platinum Limited advises that the company had decided to temporarily suspend mining operations at the Kroondal Platinum Mine," a statement said.

"The decision to suspend mining operations has been taken to ensure the safety and security of employees and assets given the rising tensions and protests within the regional workforce and communities."

Operations were expected to recommence on Sunday.

The situation would be closely monitored.

Earlier a group of protesters marched from Anglo American Platinum's Blesbok stadium to Aquarius Platinum and demanded that it closed.

They gave the company 15 minutes to respond.

Police swooped on protesters and Eye Witness News and SABC reported that tear gas was fired.

Nearby Lonmin has been closed for more than a month and Amplats suspended operations on Wednesday.

Operations were halted at Gold Fields KDC west mine near Carletonville on Sunday when workers there went on strike.

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