20120916
AP
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — A third platinum mine closes in South Africa even as police disperse strikers outside, acting within hours of the government vowing to end violence spreading in the crucial mining sector.

Xstrata Platinum Ltd says it temporarily suspended operations at Kroondal mine Friday "to ensure the safety and security of employees and assets" amid "rising tensions and protests."

The mine employees 5,300 workers who apparently were being threatened by strikers outside from Lonmin Platinum mine.

Police spokesman Thulani Ngubane said police fired stun grenades and arrested seven people.

The South African Press Association said one striker was herded by a helicopter into the arms of officers on the ground.

It is the first time police acted against protesters since they killed 34 strikers Aug. 16 at Lonmin platinum mine.