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Riots in New Caledonia: tensions remain high despite signs of calm
Emmanuel Macron convened, on the evening of Monday May 20, a defense council on the situation in New Caledonia. Although the police dismantle the roadblocks, tensions persist.
(France 2)
Emmanuel Macron convened, on the evening of Monday May 20, a defense council on the situation in New Caledonia. Although the police dismantle the roadblocks, tensions persist.
From the sky, above Nouméa (New Caledonia), numerous columns of smoke rise. Businesses and stores are engulfed in flames, a sign that tensions persist, Monday May 20. The rioters primarily target the economic heart of the island. An entire car dealership was burned to the ground. North of the city, the Kanaks still hold roadblocks. “Our fight is legitimate. It’s just to say not to touch our achievements”confides a man.
Many roads remain impassable. The police continue to advance to clear the main roads. The police now protect strategic points. For the first time since the start of the riots, some signs of calm appear.
In the Magenta district, one of the most affected, white flags were erected. The demonstrators themselves are clearing the streets of car wrecks. “It’s been six days that moms and dads haven’t slept. (…) There are too many deaths at the moment, that’s why we decided to stop”, assures a young person. According to the Ministry of the Interior, the last few hours have been calmer in New Caledonia. 29 people were arrested.
