Like a red wave more than 200 National Union of Metalworkers of SA (Numsa) strikers slowly moved through the streets of Chamdor demanding wage increases and benefits.
The union announced the day before that its workers would start striking and march in major suburbs to voice their discontent with their current wages and working conditions.
The march that was supposed to be peaceful turned destructive in Johannesburg on Tuesday 1 July when more 220 000 Numsa members marched through the streets of the city leaving in their wake broken windows and gates.
Although no incidents of vandalism were reported in Krugersdorp on Wednesday morning 2 July business owners were proactive.
In Chamdor, Krugersdorp’s industrial mecca, gates were locked and cars were parked out of harm’s way.
Speaking to a Krugersdorp Numsa member who only wishes to go by the name of Kenny, news journalists were told that more than 2 000 metals workers live in the area.
“We all live like dogs, most of us are breadwinners but can’t be called that because we are struggling to buy enough food for our families,” he said.
Numsa strikers in Krugersdorp demand:
• A 12 per cent wage increase
• A total ban on labour brokers
• Training and career paths
Strikers emphasised that they would not go back to work unless their demands are met and refused to answer when asked whether they would resort to vandalism in Krugersdorp.
