Protests take a violent turn

MOSESETJANE – Police were forced to fire rubber bullets to disperse protesters who violently protested at Ivanplats’ (Platreef) last week Thursday.
Police also reported fire damage to one of the mine contractors’ temporary offices at Lesedi (not at the mine construction site).
Ten men and three women were arrested for public violence as protests got out of hand, confirmed police spokesperson of Mahwelereng, constable Sello Leso. He added that some 200 protestors were casting stones at the gate of the mine’s Lesedi Project.
The mine’s spokesperson, Jeremy Michaels said Ivanplats strongly condemns the recent violence by a handful of people who do not understand that such behaviour is unacceptable and unlawful. “Ivanplats recognises the right to peaceful protest, we have indeed responded to the various demands made by some community members and we encourage anyone in our host communities to contact the company if they need information or want to discuss any concerns with us," he said.
"We have had extensive engagements with our host communities and will continue to do so but we will not be held to ransom by a few lawless individuals who have no respect for the right of others,” Michaels added, saying that Ivanplats is creating many new jobs in Mokopane and is creating opportunities for small businesses which will help to create indirect jobs and stimulate the local economy. "More than that we cannot do and we urge community members to understand that violent protest sends a very bad message to those who want to do business and create jobs in and around Mokopane.”