JOHANNESBURG – Anglo American Platinum (Amplats) on Saturday expressed sadness at the death of one of its employees after protesters allegedly clashed with police.

"It is with sadness that we learnt of the death of one of our employees. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased," CEO Chris Griffith said in a statement.

"We strongly urge striking employees to adhere to the picketing rules and remain within the picketing designated areas as agreed with Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU). We condemn any act of violence, intimidation and damage to property."

Amplats would provide the family with support and counselling.

According to the statement, an AMCU shop steward died when protesters allegedly clashed with police on Friday.

Police were dispersing a group of protesters who had barricaded a road leading to Union mine with burning tyres and rocks on Friday.

"A violent outbreak occurred when the [South African Police Services] sought to disperse the striking employees, and one of the protesters was fatally injured," Amplats said in a statement.

"The company notes with concern the significant increase of violence and intimidation incidences since the commencement of the strike by members of AMCU on January 23."

Limpopo police spokesman Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi said the matter was handed over to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate for further investigation.

Amplats said another person was "badly assaulted" by protesters earlier in the week on his way to Khuseleka mine and remained in a critical but stable condition in hospital.

Fourteen vehicles have been damaged and another vehicle and an excavator were set alight.

Several striking mineworkers had been arrested following violence and intimidation during the strike that began several weeks ago.

The platinum sector has been crippled by the protected strike headed by AMCU. Its members from Amplats, Impala Platinum and Lonmin downed tools on January 23.

The union is demanding a R12 500 monthly basic salary for miners.

The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration has been facilitating talks between the platinum producers and the union.