Prison Kidnapping, Arson, Riots in New Caledonia as France Pushes Election Changes

Three prison staff were taken hostage, a car dealership set ablaze, schools and public services closed, and protest marches have marked rioting across New Caledonia as socialist-led pro-independence supporters vent their anger over moves by the French National Assembly to introduce voting changes. The movement is concerned it will favour those who are against independence. Schools, public services offices and airports are closed, and there are long queues outside shopping centres as people panic buy, in scenes reminiscent of the pandemic. More than 200 fires have been lit, with a Porsche and Audi dealership and carbonated drinks company Le Froid among the businesses set ablaze and totally destroyed....