Protesters invade Zululand Anthracite Colliery mine demanding employment

THE situation at Zululand Anthracite Colliery (ZAC) mine’s Outcrop shaft remained tense as 11 of 12 men who invaded the shaft on Thursday remain holed up in the mine.

One of the group was arrested when he emerged from the mine.

The group of the Luphonjwana community forced their way into the mine at 8am on Thursday, demanding to be employed.

Negotiations between the men and mine management have been unsuccessful.

It has been confirmed that the men entered the mine the previous week.

They were not arrested and a case was opened at the Nongoma Police Station following the incident.

Following the latest invasion, a second case was opened.

At nightfall on Thursday, the 11 men were still inside, refusing to leave the shaft.

The men entered the mine carrying bags, the contents of which are not known.

It is also not known if they are armed.

Members of Public Order Policing, Nongoma Vispol and Mahlabatini Vispol are monitoring the situation.

They were unable to enter the mine as no person is allowed to enter the shaft without attending an induction course.

Members were also unable to flush the men out using tear gas owing to other gases used in the mine.

The road in the Nzama area outside Nongoma was also blocked by 30 protesters in the morning.

Rocks were strewn on the road and at the entrance to the E-Block shaft.