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South African Chrome Miners Join Strike Despite Crackdown

The South African Press Association reports mining strikes that have halted work at seven gold and platinum mines have spread to the chrome sector. The official news agency quotes a strike leader saying some miners at Samancor Chrome stopped work Friday demanding a minimum take-home pay of $1,560.

MARIKANA, South Africa (AP) -- The South African Press Association reports mining strikes that have halted work at seven gold and platinum mines have spread to the chrome sector.

The official news agency quotes a strike leader saying some miners at Samancor Chrome stopped work Friday demanding a minimum take-home pay of 12,500 rand ($1,560).

A company spokeswoman says only the CEO can comment. It was unclear whether production was affected at the chrome mine near Mooinooi, northwest of Johannesburg.

Unrest began with a deadly strike Aug. 10 at Lonmin PLC's platinum mine and quickly spread to six other platinum and one gold mine.

Police and soldiers were out in force Monday to halt a planned illegal march by Lonmin miners in the fifth week of a strike after the government ordered a crackdown.

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