New Caledonia flights cancelled as riots continue despite curfew
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La Tontouta International Airport on the French territory remains closed since the riots began on Monday.
Aircalin flight SB151 from Brisbane was due to land in the country at 11.15pm today but has been cancelled.
Flight QF91 from Sydney was due to depart at 8.25am but still says it is on schedule.
The High Commission of the Republic of New Caledonia has confirmed that rioting is still ongoing in Greater Noumea, despite the imposition of a curfew yesterday.
“Numerous fires and looting of businesses, infrastructure and public facilities – including several schools and colleges – took place,” the High Commission said in a statement in French, translated into English.
“More than 130 arrests were made and several dozen rebels were detained and will be brought to justice.”
The commission said around 60 police officers were injured but their “commitment and professionalism” deserved praise.
Another attempted riot escape was also carried out in their prison, but it was controlled by security forces, the commission confirmed.
A 6pm to 6am curfew was put in place yesterday and the same rules were put in place tonight.
There is a ban on gatherings, selling alcohol and carrying weapons.
“The population is asked to limit their movement during the day,” the commission said.
“Exceptions to the curfew will be tolerated for compelling health reasons, medical emergencies and helping vulnerable people.”
No cruise ships are expected to dock in Noumea (Grande Terre Island, New Caledonia) this week.
Local media reports that there has been no violence in the country for many years.
A constitutional bill aimed at expanding the electorate is believed to have sparked the unrest.
It began as a “peaceful mobilization” but spiraled out of control, according to France Info.
New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters has postponed his trip to the country.
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