THEY went on strike on Tuesday, 14 September over a wage increase.
But their company called the Ekurhuleni Metro cops the following day to disperse them.
The crowd fled in different directions while running away from rubber bullets.
However, while checking the register the next morning, they noticed Jackson Masemola (44) was missing and a search ensued.
Sadly, Jackson, who worked as a saw operator for 13 years, was found dead with a rubber bullet wound.
His angry colleague said Jackson’s body was found more than a kilometre from his workplace, and they found spent rubber bullet cartridges not far from his body.
“We suspect he was followed by Metro cops and shot, even though he was far away from the company premises,” said the colleague.
About 400 workers told Daily Sun they downed tools on Tuesday, demanding a R10 per hour rate increase and that their employer should contribute 50% towards their provident fund.
One of the workers said what sparked the tension was when the employer brought labour brokers to provide outside staff to continue with work while they were on strike.
“Workers got angry because this company doesn’t take our rights seriously.
“When employees get injured, they are not given time off to heal. They get medical treatment and are expected to resume working the following day.
“We work under difficult conditions,” said another worker.
Some of the workers employees who did not want to be named showed the People’s Paper the wounds they sustained from rubber bullets.
Jackson’s family said they were shocked by the treatment they received from the company.
His brother JayJay (48) said the company refused to let them inside the premises.
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“We wanted his belongings from his locker.
“We want justice for my brother,” he said.
Jackson’s widow Lebogang Masemola (33) said she’s in pain.
“I don’t know how I’m going to cope as I have four kids, and I’m not working.
“Jackson was the breadwinner,” she said.
Approached for comment, owner and CEO of Elematic SA, Craig Webber said he could not speak to Daily Sun as he was busy with court applications.
Captain Pearl van Staad, spokeswoman for Brakpan cop shop, said a case of murder was opened against the Metro cop concerned and the investigation was underway.
Ndileka Cola, spokeswoman for Ipid, said a murder case was being investigated.
