18 Aug 2009

Arrests in New Caledonia over St Louis clashes

1:14 pm on 18 August 2009

Police in New Caledonia have arrested six young people in connection with the unrest two weeks ago.

The six were identified among those who battled riot police at St Louis near Noumea when one police officer was hit by a bullet from a hunting weapon.

The clashes came amid unrest in several places across the territory, with the St Louis blockades cutting off road access to the territory's south for more than a day.

Radio New Caledonia says the arrest has led to some people setting fire to tyres along the road and cars being stoned.

The radio also says another teenager has been arrested in connection with the violence in Montravel, near Noumea, where he was found to have carried a large knife.