04 Nov 2020 | 06:23 AM UTC
New Caledonia: Riot police deployed to Mare following clashes November 4
Riot police deployed to Mare following clashes on November 4 over appointment of new pastor; monitor the situation, avoid associated protests
Event
Riot police have been deployed to Mare following unrest on Wednesday, November 4, after the appointment of a new Protestant pastor. Several houses were reportedly set on fire, and a car was burnt in the unrest. One person was injured. The new pastor reportedly appointed himself without getting official approval from the Protestant Church, causing a divide in the community. Some people have reportedly fled Mare following the unrest.
A heightened police presence is expected in the vicinity of demonstrations and the unrest, with disruptions to transportation and business likely.
Advice
Those in Mare are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.