27 May 2015

New Caledonia prison riot contained

4:11 pm on 27 May 2015

Prisoners at New Caledonia's jail have reportedly set fire to mattresses at the territory's prison in a riot, which was reportedly put down by security forces within hours.

The public broadcaster, Nouvelle Caledonie Premiere, says three policemen were injured in the operation.

It says police, firefighters and ambulances were sent to the Camp-Est jail to quell several fires.

One of the buildings at the jail can no longer be used.

The riot was reportedly triggered by Sunday's suicide of a 23-year-old inmate.