Only self-defence in South African mining-drama?

 Officials in South Africa have confirmed that police forces have shot 34 mine workers dead and injured 78. The police claim they acted in order to defend themselves against the striking miners. Nevertheless, critics question the brutal action. Meanwhile Jacob Zuma has declared a week of mourning for the striking miners who have been killed.

Read more about the topic:
‘South Africa Lonmin killings: ‘We are so angry’’ (BBC Africa)

‘Lonmin Marikana mine clashes: South Africans react’ (BBC Africa)

‘South Africa mine shooting: Who is to blame?’ (AlJazeera Africa)
‘Police open fire on South African miners’ (AlJazeera Africa)

‘South Africa miners in stand-off with police’ (AlJazeera Africa)

Watch a series of pictures from the strikes and the clashes on BBC Africa:
‘In pictures: South Africa mine clashes’