Two Men Killed by French Security Forces as Unrest in New Caledonia Escalates, Death Toll Reaches 13

Two men were killed during a French security forces operation in New Caledonia, marking a significant escalation in ongoing unrest that has plagued the French Pacific territory for months. The deaths bring the total number of fatalities to 13 since clashes began in mid-May. Tensions remain high, particularly in the independence-leaning region of Saint Louis, just south of the capital, Noumea.

According to New Caledonia’s public prosecutor, Yves Dupas, the incident occurred during an observation mission conducted by security forces. “Two shots were fired after the security forces were directly threatened by a group of armed individuals,” Dupas stated. The first shot hit a 30-year-old man in the abdomen, while the second struck a 29-year-old man in the chest, resulting in both men’s deaths. The security forces were reportedly searching for approximately a dozen individuals suspected of attacking law enforcement.

In Saint Louis, clashes between French police and civilians continue to flare up. An AFP journalist reported witnessing confrontations in the area, which has long been a stronghold of the pro-independence movement. The unrest began when Paris proposed voting reforms that Indigenous Kanak people fear would permanently marginalize them and hinder their aspirations for independence. Protests quickly escalated, with demonstrators setting up roadblocks, burning vehicles, and damaging public and private property. Businesses and public buildings have also been looted, contributing to widespread disorder.

In response to the growing instability, France deployed thousands of troops and police to New Caledonia, a territory located nearly 17,000 kilometers (10,600 miles) from mainland France. The violent confrontations and destruction, reminiscent of the near-civil war that took place in the 1980s, have left hundreds injured. The material damage is estimated at approximately 2.2 billion euros ($2.4 billion).

Despite the French government’s efforts to restore order, tensions continue to simmer. The proposed electoral reform, which requires amendments to the French constitution, has stalled since President Emmanuel Macron dissolved parliament and called for new elections. The resulting legislative body, formed in July, does not have a clear majority, leaving the reforms in limbo.

Although unrest has somewhat diminished since mid-July, certain areas remain in a state of heightened alert. The road to Saint Louis, a focal point of the independence movement, is still closed to general traffic. The 1,200 residents of the area can only access the village by foot, after passing through checkpoints to present identification. Emergency services and ambulances are the only vehicles permitted to enter the area, while other roadblocks throughout New Caledonia have been lifted.

A curfew between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. remains in effect, and security operations continue to target those responsible for the recent violence. Since June 19, authorities have arrested 13 pro-independence activists, seven of whom are currently incarcerated, with five being held in mainland France.