The situation remained tense yesterday in Martinique, where the night curfew is extended until October 21, after the urban violence of recent days and against a backdrop of bogged down negotiations against the high cost of living. The island-wide curfew from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. was introduced on October 10.
“This exceptional measure” aimed “at guaranteeing the safety of people and property in the current context of serious breaches of public order” is extended until October 21 and will be extended “as long as necessary”, announced Monday the prefecture of Martinique in a press release.
She nevertheless reported a “clear reduction” in “exactions” and “blockages”, linked to the mobilization against the high cost of living.
Concerning the curfew, only “exceptions to the ban on movement will be tolerated for compelling health reasons and in the context of professional activities”, specified the prefecture.
The prefect also extended the ban on the purchase, sale and retail transport of fuel and explosive products, as well as “the importation, purchase, sale, transport and use of fireworks” and other pyrotechnic articles.
The Caribbean island of nearly 350,000 inhabitants has been gripped since the beginning of September by social mobilization which has degenerated into urban violence against the price of food products, 40% more expensive than in France.
“No notable incident” was noted by the police and gendarmerie over the last 48 hours, the prefecture said earlier Monday.
“The operations of lifting the blockades and cleaning the tracks are continuing at a good pace” and “the supply of fuel at the service stations is now taking place under normal conditions,” she said.
The Martinique academy also announced in a press release on Monday the “gradual return of face-to-face teaching” in all primary and secondary establishments from Tuesday “if the security context remains favorable”.
