New Caledonia flights cancelled as riots continue despite curfew

by Lucy Slade
May 15, 2024

All international flights to New Caledonia have been cancelled after riots continued in the capital overnight despite a curfew being put in place.

The French territory's La Tontouta International Airport remains closed after the riots began on Monday.

Aircalin flight SB151 from Brisbane was due to land in the country at 11.15pm today but it has been cancelled.

Cars were burn out at a Renault dealership. (Nine/ supplied)

New Caledonia is paradise, less than three hours from Australia. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A QF91 flight from Sydney was due to depart at 8.25am but it still says it's scheduled.

The High Commission of the Republic in New Caledonia confirmed riots were still underway in Greater Nouméa despite putting a curfew in place yesterday.

"Numerous fires and looting of businesses, infrastructure and public establishments - including several schools and colleges - were perpetrated," the High Commission said in a French statement, converted to English.

"More than 130 arrests took place and several dozen rioters were taken into custody and will be brought before the courts."

Riots continued in the capital overnight despite a curfew being put in place. (Nine/ Supplied)
The commission said about 60 police officers had been injured but their "commitment and professionalism" was to be commended.

A new rebellion escape attempt also took place at their prison but it was controlled by security forces, the commission confirmed.

A curfew was put in place from 6pm to 6am yesterday and the same rules have been put in place tonight.
There is a ban on gatherings, selling alcohol and carrying weapons.
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At least 130 people have been arrested so far. (Nine/ supplied)

"The population is asked to limit their movements during the day," the commission said.

"Exceptions to the ban on movement during the curfew will be tolerated for compelling health reasons, medical emergencies and assistance to vulnerable people."

No cruise ships are expected to dock in Noumea (Grande Terre Island New Caledonia) this week.

Local media is reporting that the country has not experienced violence for many years.
It's believed the constitutional bill aimed at expanding the electorate triggered the riots.
It began as a "peaceful mobilisation" but it became out of control, according to France Info.
New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters postponed his trip to the country.