New riots erupted on the French Caribbean island of Martinique, resulting in the death of one person, 12 police officers injured, and widespread looting of stores, authorities reported on Thursday. The island, home to approximately 350,000 residents, has been rocked in recent weeks by violent protests fueled by frustrations over high prices.
During a particularly tumultuous night from Wednesday to Thursday, protesters engaged in looting, set up burning barricades, and clashed with law enforcement. The local prefecture confirmed that one individual succumbed to his injuries after being shot, although they clarified that police did not fire any shots during the unrest.
The wounded individual was found by police who were responding to reports of looting at a shopping center in the town of Robert. After being transported to the hospital, the victim was declared dead, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Clashes continued throughout the night, with burned-out vehicles obstructing traffic on a main road in Fort-de-France, the island’s capital. The situation remains tense as officials grapple with the ongoing unrest and its underlying causes.
Schools on the island of Martinique remained closed on Thursday as unrest continued to grip the region. On Wednesday, four police officers sustained minor injuries in the town of Carbet while attempting to dismantle a roadblock, according to the local prefecture.
Residents of France’s overseas territories, including Martinique, have long voiced their frustrations regarding the high cost of living. In fact, food prices in Martinique are reported to be 40 percent higher than those in mainland France, further fueling public discontent.
The protests, which began in early September, were organized by the Assembly for the Protection of Afro-Caribbean Peoples and Resources (RPPRAC). This group is demanding that food prices be adjusted to align with those in mainland France, highlighting the economic disparities faced by residents.
In response to the escalating violence, authorities had previously imposed a nighttime curfew in several neighborhoods of Fort-de-France and Lamentin. However, that curfew has since been lifted as officials assess the situation and work towards restoring order. The ongoing unrest reflects deep-seated grievances that continue to affect the community.
