This is a terrible crime and exactly the reason why I left SA 18 years ago.
It is a fact that SA mine workers earn a fraction of what is paid in Australia and the wage is probably not enough in order to live a respectable life.
This poverty, years of resistance against the apartheid government and collapse of the African family culture has resulted in a militant youth who are unemployable and resort to crime in order to survive.
Certainly disgruntled miners were also involved but I see this more as a result of their involvemenet in criminal gangs rather than a labour dispute.
Condolences to the family of the deceased and those injured. I hope the perpetrators are caught and justice prevails.
Other than the pain in my heart as to how my country has collapsed into crime, I do not see that this should have much effect on PLA operations and I anxioulsy wait to see what the company will deliver for the June quarter.
BR Max
PLA Price at posting:
43.5¢ Sentiment: None Disclosure: Held