French police arrested CCAT leader, Christian Tein, and seven others in New Caledonia for “organised crime” offenses, amidst unrest and violence in the region.
CCAT, a pro-independence activist group, was created to oppose electoral reform plans and has been blamed for inciting violence in New Caledonia.
The arrests led to heavy police presence and closure of many establishments in and around the area.
Unrest in New Caledonia began over electoral roll updates, resulting in numerous casualties and significant damage, prompting French intervention.
Constitutional reform efforts have been halted, with President Macron calling for snap elections in response to the crisis.