At Martinique’s airport, hundreds of passengers were stranded after protesters overran the tarmac and attempted to break in. The overnight shutdown delayed flights and officials urged passengers to contact their airlines for information when operations resumed by mid-morning. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau stated that authorities had regained control of the airport and reinforcements were sent to the island to restore order, taking into account local people’s dissatisfaction with high prices. The protests in Martinique began on Monday night over the high cost of living and turned violent, resulting in one death as demonstrators clashed with police, set fire to buildings and barricades, and engaged in confrontations.
On Thursday night, protesters breached the airport in Fort-de-France, attempting to enter the main entrance where stranded passengers had sought shelter. Videos showed police fending off demonstrators and using tear gas to disperse the crowd, resulting in the suspension of flights and diversion of three planes carrying 1,000 passengers to Guadeloupe. Another 500 passengers were stuck at the airport. The local prefecture attributed the airport invasion to false rumors spread on social media about the imminent arrival of French police officers by plane. Nearly a dozen officers were injured this week due to violent clashes with protesters, some of whom opened fire.
The government announced a curfew and prohibited demonstrations on public roads in response to the ongoing unrest. Special anti-riot police were sent to the island in early September, and certain areas have banned demonstrations. Martinique has experienced similar protests in recent years, driven by grievances related to economic, social, and racial disparities. Demonstrators continue to express frustration over inequalities, contributing to the recurring cycle of protests and government responses to maintain control and address the underlying issues. France is actively involved in managing the situation and ensuring the safety of residents and visitors amid the ongoing unrest in the French Caribbean island.
