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Mine killings self-defence: S. Africa police chief

By AFP
South Africa South Africa's police chief Riah Phiyega says her officers had to defend themselves.  By Stringer AFP
AUG 17, 2012 LISTEN
South Africa's police chief Riah Phiyega says her officers had to defend themselves. By Stringer (AFP)

MARIKANA, South Africa (AFP) - South Africa's national police chief said Friday that her forces opened fire in self-defence after coming attack from armed mine workers, leaving 34 people dead and 78 injured.

"The militant group stormed toward the police," Riah Phiyega said. "Police were forced to use maximum force to defend themselves."

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