Move FM Australian News

NOUMEA, New Caledonia: French authorities in New Caledonia have reasserted control over Noumea, the capital of the Pacific territory, following two weeks of violent unrest that resulted in seven deaths and extensive destruction.

Interior and Overseas Minister Gerald Darmanin announced the completion of a major police operation in the Riviere-Salee district, the last area under protester control.

Darmanin shared on social media that the operation involved 400 members of French and New Caledonian security forces, including elite anti-terrorism and anti-organized crime units. The operation led to the arrest of 12 individuals and the dismantling of 26 roadblocks.

The unrest began on May 13 in reaction to French President Emmanuel Macron’s plans to amend the French Constitution and change voting lists in New Caledonia. The violence, which included shootings, clashes, looting, and arson, prompted France to declare a state of emergency on May 15 and deploy additional troops to support local police.

The conflict in New Caledonia stems from longstanding tensions between Indigenous Kanaks, who seek independence, and those loyal to France. Both factions erected barricades, with pro-independence protesters turning parts of Noumea into no-go zones with barricades made of charred vehicles and debris.

President Macron lifted the state of emergency at the beginning of the week to encourage dialogue between local parties and French authorities. However, pro-independence leaders have demanded the withdrawal of the electoral reform bill, arguing that it would favor pro-France politicians and further marginalize Indigenous Kanaks amid ongoing economic disparities and discrimination.

Although violence has decreased, tensions persist. Pro-independence leaders have called on their supporters to “remain mobilized” and resist French rule. Despite lifting emergency measures, a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. remains in effect, alongside bans on public gatherings, transport, carrying weapons, and alcohol sales.

According to local authorities, La Tontouta International Airport will remain closed to commercial traffic until at least June 3, and schools are not expected to reopen until mid-June.

New Caledonia became a French territory in 1853 under Emperor Napoleon III and was designated an overseas territory after World War II, with French citizenship granted to all Kanaks in 1957.