Zuma concludes Marikana visit

South Africa's President Jacob Zuma (L) chats with one of the injured miners during a courtesy visit in a hospital outside a South African mine in Rustenburg, 100 km (62 miles) northwest of Johannesburg, August 17, 2012. South African Police were forced to open fire to protect themselves from charging armed protesters at the Marikana mine, and 34 of the protesters were killed, Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega said on Friday. She told a news conference that 78 people were injured and 259 arrested in Thursday's violence. REUTERS/Kopano Tlape/Government Communications and Information Systems (GCIS)/Handout

South Africa's President Jacob Zuma (L) chats with one of the injured miners during a courtesy visit in a hospital outside a South African mine in Rustenburg, 100 km (62 miles) northwest of Johannesburg, August 17, 2012. South African Police were forced to open fire to protect themselves from charging armed protesters at the Marikana mine, and 34 of the protesters were killed, Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega said on Friday. She told a news conference that 78 people were injured and 259 arrested in Thursday's violence. REUTERS/Kopano Tlape/Government Communications and Information Systems (GCIS)/Handout

Published Aug 18, 2012

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President Jacob Zuma has concluded his visit to Marikana near Rustenburg where more than 30 people were tragically killed, the presidency said on Friday.

The President received a briefing from the police and later from injured workers at the Andrew Saffy Hospital, said spokesman Mac Maharaj.

“I am convinced that the Commission of Inquiry will uncover the truth and facts will emerge. We have asked relevant government departments, including especially the provincial government, to provide every possible assistance to the families during this painful and difficult period,” Zuma said.

“The loss of life in this manner is unacceptable and we have to ensure that this never happens again.”

Zuma added: “We know that many families are still desperately looking for their loved ones. Therefore government stands ready to assist.”

The President was accompanied by State Security Minister Siyabonga Cwele, Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa, Mineral Resources Minister Susan Shabangu, North West Premier Thandi Modise and National Police Commissioner Ria Phiyega. - Sapa

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