France is not having it with anyone who organizes and participates in any independence movement.
Seven activists associated with a pro-independence movement have been transferred from New Caledonia to mainland France for pre-trial detention amid charges related to recent riots in the French Pacific territory. The local prosecutor announced that the individuals were moved overnight by a specially chartered plane to ensure the integrity of the ongoing investigations, free from local influences.
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– Independence activists behind New Caledonia protests flown to France for detention
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The move involves Christian Tein, leader of the Field Action Coordination Cell (CCAT), who was formally charged in connection with violent events that resulted in nine fatalities, including two police officers. The disturbances also left hundreds injured and caused extensive damage estimated at approximately $1.6 billion, centered around contentious voting reforms proposed for the territory.
According to reports, the charges against Tein include armed robbery and either murder or attempted murder. His attorney expressed shock and concern over the decision to move him to France, criticizing it as a politically motivated action that had not been anticipated. This sentiment was echoed by another lawyer representing a different detainee, who argued that these measures could turn the accused into symbols of martyrdom for the independence cause.
New Caledonia independence activists sent to France for detention after deadly riots
➡️ https://t.co/hJEhf7xvQZ pic.twitter.com/RaQTbGq9wK— FRANCE 24 (@FRANCE24) June 23, 2024
The situation in New Caledonia escalated in May following proposed electoral changes that would allow more long-term residents to vote in local elections. This proposal sparked fears among the indigenous Kanak population that such a shift would weaken their electoral power and undermine their aspirations for independence. The government deployed military forces to the area in response to the ensuing riots, which included street barricades and widespread looting.
New Caledonia activists sent to France for detention https://t.co/F1K6kZgXqD pic.twitter.com/BiGKffgqvV
— Hürriyet Daily News (@HDNER) June 23, 2024
Authorities in France have repeatedly accused Tein and his organization, CCAT, of being behind the violent outbreaks, a claim that the group has denied. The debate over the electoral reform has exposed deep-seated tensions and highlighted the complex relationship between New Caledonia and the French government, as the region grapples with its colonial past and ongoing demands for greater autonomy.
Major Points
- Seven pro-independence activists from New Caledonia were transferred to mainland France for pre-trial detention related to recent riots.
- The activists, including Christian Tein, leader of the Field Action Coordination Cell (CCAT), face charges such as armed robbery and murder.
- The unrest in New Caledonia was triggered by proposed electoral reforms feared by indigenous Kanaks to dilute their voting power.
- The French government deployed military forces in response to the riots, which resulted in nine deaths and extensive property damage.
- The transfer of detainees to France was criticized as a politically motivated decision, potentially turning the accused into martyrs for the independence cause.
Conner T – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
