Deaths reported as diamond strike continues

[dArKeR]

Gaborone, Botswana

An illegal strike in the world's largest diamond producer, Botswana, entered a second week on Monday with the union saying that miners who have opted to stay on the job are overworked, resulting in two deaths.

"The people are suffering from fatigue. They are understaffed and overworked. So far, two are reported to have died at the weekend," said Jack Thlagale, spokesperson for the 6 000-strong Botswana Mine Workers Union.

"The rate of accidents has gone up and in addition to the dead, two more people were hospitalised after sustaining accidents while on duty in Jwaneng Mine," said Thlagale, referring to the mine that is widely considered the jewel in Botswana's diamond crown.

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