7 Jan 2017

Four arrests linked to October blockades in New Caledonia

2:58 pm on 7 January 2017
Police officers guard the road in Mont-Dore, to the south of New Caledonia's capital, Noumea. The road is frequently closed by armed protesters.

Police officers guard the road in Mont-Dore, to the south of New Caledonia's capital, Noumea. The road is frequently closed by armed protesters. Photo: AFP

Four people have been arrested in New Caledonia in relation to events that led to a spate of lawlessness near Noumea in October.

A police shooting in October sparked days of riots and armed unrest which left five police officers with gunshot injuries and the main road to the south of Noumea blocked for days on end.

The territory's public broadcaster says four people, including a minor, were arrested on Wednesday and Friday.

They are being held on a range of charges including aggravated robbery, criminal association, and car theft.

The public prosecutor says investigations are continuing.