RUSTENBURG - Footage was shown at the Marikana Commission of Inquiry on Friday which showed Lonmin miners, who were on a wage protest in August, charging at police and opening fire at officers with handguns.

Evidence was presented to the inquiry to determine if police were justified in using maximum force when trying to disperse workers at Lonmin's platinum mine.

Some 34 miners were killed during a clash with police on 16 August. 

The Lonmin miners were protesting for a R12,500 salary per month. 

The inquiry was set up to probe the killings. 

Video and photo footage clearly showed protesters trying to breach the police line on the day of the shooting.

A protester opening fire at police with a pistol was also seen shortly before officers retaliated.

Colonel Duncan Scott said the shooting lasted about eight seconds and a ceasefire was called when the threat was diminished.

The video also shows officers moving to the smaller koppie to disperse a crowd that had gathered there. 

Police were accused of killing miners in cold blood at this scene.

The inquiry continues. 

(Edited by Zethu Zulu)