New Caledonia's pro-independence group, the FLNKS, has firmly condemned protestors involved in arson and vandalism at the Vale nickel plant in the south of the country.
Photo: Théo Rouby / Hans Lucas
On Monday night, protesters at the plant entered the industrial site and set fire to facilities, equipment, and mining vehicles.
The protesters who had been camped outside the plant for weeks in opposition to the sale of the Brazilian-owned plant to Prony Resources.
A group of pro-independence supporters and local chiefs oppose the sale because of the involvement of a Swiss trading company.
However following weeks of intense demonstrations, the FLNKS decided to curb its protest action when the French Overseas Minister issued an invitation to discuss the matter.
In reference to the people who took part in Monday night's assault on the nickel plant, FLNKS spokesperson, Victor Tutugoro, said the group had no control over a certain element of young people.
Tutugoro said the action was not part of the FLNKS strategy.
A video meeting between Lecornu and pro-independence representatives is scheduled for Friday.
FLNKS spokesperson Victor Tutugoro Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades