Mining Weekly reports that Rio Tinto’s South African subsidiary, Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), says there are still “fundamental milestones” that must be met before its operations, in KwaZulu-Natal, can be resumed.

The mineral sands mining company suspended operations on 30 June owing to violent protests. The local community has had long-running disputes with the mine, including one involving a traditional leadership squabble and another in which locals have demanded to be employed at the mine. The latest unrest followed the death on 24 May of RBM operational service general manager Nico Swart , who was shot as he was on his way to work. KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala announced on 9 July that RBM would resume operations this week after government, Rio Tinto and RBM’s management had held talks. RBM CEO Werner Duvenhage, however, advised that operations would not likely resume until all issues were resolved. “We need assurance on the guaranteed safety of our employees and an immediate stoppage of attacks directed at our operations and assets,” he indicated. The company has been meeting with authorities, including regional and national government, community structures and the SA Police Service, to devise solutions for restoring calm and order in the area.

• Read the original of the report in the above regard at Mining Weekly

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