NorthStandard P&I Club’s correspondent McLeans has provided an update on the recent escalation of events, which have led to incidents such as widespread looting and arson of shops, clashes with law enforcement, and damage to houses and public property in Noumea, New Caledonia.
In response to the escalating situation, the Minister of the Interior in Paris has announced the deployment of reinforcements, expected to arrive in the coming days. A curfew was imposed overnight on Tuesday 14 May, which may be extended, if necessary. Furthermore, the Airport of Tountouta was closed and all incoming commercial flights cancelled.
Regarding the situation at the Port of Noumea:
- The port’s director informed that operations are officially suspended until next Friday.
- The Harbour Master announced that dockworkers/ are currently confined at home due to the prevailing insecurity in the streets preventing them from accessing the port. Discussions are ongoing with the police to establish a convoy system to escort dockworkers/stevedores to the port, potentially allowing some vessels including container ships to berth and unload their cargo on quay
- Vessels are anchored safely at the “Grande Rade” off the port.
Koniambo Nickel SAS (KNS) – north of the island – has reportedly ceased its operations in response to the deteriorating situation.
