Impala Platinum (Implats) said today (February 2nd) it has sacked 13,000 workers who have engaged in the latest round of unprotected strikes at its Rustenburg operations in South Africa.

They had been given until Wednesday to return to work after downing tools in sympathy for the 5,000 or so rock drill operators who were dismissed for illegally striking.

It brings the total number of dismissals to 17,200, but the workers will be able to re-apply for their jobs, the world's second largest primary platinum producer said.

The strikes, which took root a fortnight ago with the rock drill operators, is costing the firm 3,000 oz a day in lost output.

A prolonged disruption could harm the firm's chances of hitting its target of 1.7 million ounces over the 2012 financial year.

Sources:

UPDATE 1-S.Africa's Implats fires 13,000 workers (02/02/12)

NUM accuses Implats of 'underhand' tactics (02/02/12)

Implats gives workers until Friday to reapply for jobs (25/01/12)

Impala Strike Impact Could Last Beyond Two Weeks, Goldman Says (26/01/12)

Implats says 15% of rock drill operators back at work (26/01/12)

Implats says Rustenburg strike illegal, to fire workers (24/01/12)

Implats says 5,000 workers on strike at Rustenburg (23/01/12)

Implats says losing 3,000 oz per day at Rustenburg (23/01/12)

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