The prefect of Guadeloupe imposes a curfew after urban violence

Policemen injured and businesses targeted

The report from the prefecture states that three policemen were injured by gunfire during the clashes. According to RCI Guadeloupe, law enforcement was targeted while numerous fires and outbreaks of flames were reported. Several businesses also suffered acts of vandalism, with some being completely destroyed.

Strong condemnation by authorities

Thierry Devimeux denounced actions he describes as intolerable. In a statement relayed by RCI Guadeloupe, the prefect emphasized that these violent acts are separate from usual protest movements, stating that "these incidents do not fall under the exercise of the right to demonstrate. They constitute intolerable acts of delinquency and cannot be confused with peaceful expressions of demands."

The representative of the state stressed that "no circumstance can justify actions against businesses and economic activity in Guadeloupe." While calling for calm, he expressed support for injured agents and praised the work of security forces mobilized under difficult conditions.

Context of tensions

These incidents occurred on the sidelines of a protest against high living costs. Outremers360 notes that the decision to restrict the movement of minors follows a night of chaos marked by burning barricades and scenes of looting.