Police in New Caledonia have arrested pro-independence leader Christian Tein and 10 others for their alleged roles in deadly protests last month, according to prosecutors. The group faces charges of organized crime and could be held for up to 96 hours. The arrests were part of a broad investigation into various crimes, including complicity in homicide and arson.
The police operation led to the closure of businesses and shops in Nouméa, as tensions rose over the arrests. Tein was taken into custody at the headquarters of the Caledonian Union, a major pro-independence party. The unrest followed France’s approval of voting reforms for the territory, leading to fears among indigenous Kanaks that their voting rights would be further marginalized.
With tensions high, both sides are urging calm and dialogue to find a peaceful resolution. New Caledonia’s airport has reopened, but a curfew remains in place as the situation unfolds.
Source: Reuters, Agence France-Presse, Associated Press