Calls for a commission of inquiry into Marikana shooting

01 Feb 2016 | Admin Author

Political parties and trade unions have called for a commission of inquiry into yesterday's shooting at the Lonmin Mine in North West province where the death toll has been put at 35.

Speaking on SABC radio this morning Cosatu leader, Zwelinzima Vavi, described the shootings as being worse than the 1992 Bhisho massacre when 29 people were killed in clashes with troops of the former Ciskei government.

DA leader Helen Zille said president Jacob Zuma should institute a full commission of inquiry into the incident while ANC national spokesperson, Jackson Mthembu, also supported the call for an inquiry.

Police Minister Nathi Mthetwa reportedly put the death toll at 35.

Mining Minister Susan Shabangu is at Marikana Mine and is expected to make a statement on Friday morning.

Moses Dlamini of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate says they will be investigating the incident.