New Caledonia's capital now has regained control after previous destructive riots.
Following violent upheaval in the French overseas territory of New Caledonia, Nouméa's capital is once more deemed to be "in control" as per official reports. The police cleared 26 blockades in the city's last section still experiencing obstructions, as per a declaration by France's Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin.
"The entire city of Nouméa is under the administration of the state," affirmed the island's representative of the French central government, High Commissioner Louis Le Franc. Dozens were detained while removing the barricades. An accumulated number of 666 arrests were made since the unrest started on May 13.
Le Franc mentioned that the rest of the island is witnessing significant improvement. A night curfew persists. The airport La Tontouta close to Nouméa is anticipated to stay closed no later than Monday. The state of emergency in New Caledonia was terminated four days prior. The French central administration sent more gendarmes to the island at the start of the week.
Seven individuals lost their lives due to the turmoil during protests against a voting rights amendment. Two law enforcement members perished in the violence. Barriers were still vibrant outside Nouméa. Pro-independence activists have vowed to continue their demonstrations.
The contentious change permits mainland French inhabitants who transfer to New Caledonia to partake in voting earlier than before. The local population of the island chain, the Kanaks, who represent more than 40 percent of the population, are apprehensive about the potential for their influence to decrease.
