At least 60 members of the security forces were injured, and 214 people were arrested over clashes with police, arson and looting on Thursday. Two members of the island's Indigenous Kanak community were among those killed.
High Commissioner Louis Le Franc announced stringent measures Friday under the state of emergency, which will run for at least 11 days, with curfew in effect from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. French military forces were deployed to protect ports and airports and free up police troops.
"Exceptions to this curfew include essential public service personnel, urgent medical travel, and critical night-time activities," Le Franc said. He added that curfew violations would result in penalties of up to six months in prison and a fine.
Tensions have simmered for decades between the Kanaks, who seek independence and the descendants of colonists who want it to remain part of France.
[
add
]
[
|
|
...
]