Biggest turnout of striking S. Africa miners since shootings

More than 3,000 South African miners took to the streets near Lonmin’s Marikana mine on Wednesday, as they continue to fight for better wages.

It is the largest turnout since the shooting of 34 people by police after a protest on August 16.

This time, police put on a show of force and officers were armed with tear gas and assault rifles. Armoured vehicles and helicopters were also being used to maintain order at the gathering.

Workers are demanding a doubling of their monthly salary and improved working conditions.

The Marikana mine accounts for the majority of Lonmin’s platinum output, which is 12 percent of the global supply.

The spread of the miners’ struggles has sparked growing concern among investors in South Africa’s mining firms.

The trouble could also hurt South African president Jacob Zuma’s bid for re-election in December.

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