Police in New Caledonia have reopened a road south of Noumea after it was blocked for just over a day.
New Caledonian police are maintaining a presence along a road that was targeted by gunmen to ensure traffic can flow without impediments.
The road has been reopened after it had initially been closed because armed Kanaks had been intimidated road users by firing guns and throwing rocks.
Police have been attacked near Noumea Photo: AFP
Police and residents of St Louis had reportedly tried to hold a dialogue with the heavily armed gunmen.
Tension has been high for more than two weeks after police shot dead a prison escapee, who was from St Louis, when he allegedly tried to run over a police officer using a stolen vehicle.
The French authorities have condemned the latest violence.
There have been no arrests in connection with the violence of recent weeks which has left five policemen with gunshot injuries.