13 Sep 2024 | 07:34 AM UTC
New Caledonia: Territorywide security restrictions tightened from Sept. 16 amid continued disruptions and risk of violence /update 21
Ongoing security curbs including nightly curfew to intensify across New Caledonia from Sept. 16. Sporadic violence, disruptions reported.
Authorities in New Caledonia will maintain an ongoing territorywide 22:00-05:00 curfew through Sept. 21. An extended curfew 18:00-06:00 will then be active through at least Sept. 24 due to calls for demonstrations by nationalist and pro-independence groups during New Caledonia Day Sept. 24. The holiday marks the anniversary of the French takeover of the territory. During curfew hours, public movement will be limited to professional, official, emergency, and essential reasons, and individuals holding proof of air or maritime transport.
Ongoing relaxations on alcohol sales will be removed effective Sept. 16; takeaway services and consumption of alcohol in public spaces will no longer be allowed. Additional restrictions, such as a ban on unauthorized public gatherings and the transportation of weapons, will continue until further notice; further extensions of these measures are highly likely. Over 3,000 security personnel remain deployed territorywide as multiple countries continue advising their citizens to reconsider travel to all or part of the territory.
Civil Unrest
Sporadic violence continues, with occasional disruptive rallies, prolonged road blockades, as well as acts of arson and vandalism targeting government buildings, retail outlets, and emergency vehicles. The worst affected areas include the outer regions of Greater Noumea, Bourail, Dumbea, and Mont-Dore. Fresh escalations are likely over any protester deaths due to police action, as well as perceptions of unfair treatment or unfavorable verdicts affecting detained pro-independence activists in France.
The pro-independence group Cellule de Coordination des Actions de Terrain (CCAT) continues to hold demonstrations on the 13th day of every month, mainly in Noumea and parts of North Province. Potential gathering sites for additional protests include military barracks, government buildings such as the Congress of New Caledonia and the High Commission of the Republic offices, public squares, and thoroughfares. The largest gatherings are likely in downtown Noumea. Well-attended gatherings have previously drawn tens of thousands of participants, with the reported use of firearms by some protesters and police. Security forces may use live ammunition, batons, tear gas, and/or water cannons to disperse unruly crowds. In the event of widespread violence, officials may reimpose the state of emergency; under such orders, authorities have additional powers to close public spaces, conduct administrative searches, block websites deemed a security risk, and conduct residential subpoenas.
Commercial and Transport Disruptions
Commercial and transport services continue to reopen gradually across the territory. Commercial flights are available. However, Air New Zealand (NZ) has halted flights from Auckland Airport (AKL) to Noumea Magenta Airport (GEA) until Dec. 14, while Air Calin (SB) has limited international services through September; similar moves may limit flight availability until the situation normalizes. While five lines of the Rai bus service have resumed operations on the West Coast, Taneo and other Rai buses remain canceled. Ferry services from Noumea to Lifou and Mare and bus services in Lifou are available.
Emergency services at Chepenehe Medical Center in Lifou, Paula-Thavoavianon Hospital in Koumac, and Raymond-Doui-Nebayes Hospital in Poindimie have been severely affected since early August due to the limited availability of doctors. School and business closures remain possible at short notice, especially in Noumea, due to the threat of recurring violence and a potential increase in opportunistic crimes.
Avoid concentrations of security personnel and people, as well as navigating roadblocks due to the potential for violence. Consider limiting movements while the situation stabilizes; remain indoors during curfew hours. Confirm road status and any available protest information before travel to and within Noumea. Plan for business disruptions and ensure access to essential items. Confirm ground transport and flight arrangements beforehand; do not check out of accommodation without confirming onward travel. Heed all security, traffic, and travel advisories.
The curbs came into effect following violent unrest after the French parliament approved the expansion of voting rights to long-term residents. Incidents of widespread arson, looting, rioting, and clashes have occurred since May 13, leaving at least 11 people dead, over 212 security personnel injured, and over 2, 600 people arrested.
