Demonstrations over the high cost of living on the French Caribbean island of Martinique escalated into violence late Wednesday, resulting in at least one death and numerous injuries. Protesters set fire to a police station, vehicles, and roadblocks while clashing with law enforcement, marking one of the most tumultuous nights since the protests began over a month ago.
The unrest erupted as demonstrators expressed their frustrations over soaring prices, particularly for essential goods.
Footage shared on social media depicted chaotic scenes of looting at grocery stores and confrontations with police, who responded with tear gas. According to local authorities, one man succumbed to gunshot wounds during the clashes, although officials confirmed that police did not discharge their weapons that night. Twelve police officers sustained injuries, including one from gunfire.
The violence prompted the government to impose a nighttime curfew and ban public protests, emphasizing that demonstrations on public roads would not be tolerated. The local prefecture stated that an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death is underway.In anticipation of further unrest, a specialized unit of French riot police has been deployed to Martinique.
The government had previously scheduled a meeting with citizens to discuss strategies for making essential goods more affordable, acknowledging the hardships faced by many residents. Didier Laguerre, the mayor of Fort-de-France, expressed understanding for the public’s anger and frustration, stating, I comprehend the pain and frustration.
The protests were initiated by the Assembly for the Protection of Afro-Caribbean Peoples and Resources (RPPRAC) in early September, demanding that food prices be aligned with those in mainland France. Residents have long complained about high living costs, with food prices reportedly 40 percent higher than in mainland France. As tensions continue to rise on the island of approximately 350,000 people, schools have been closed as a precautionary measure. The situation remains fluid as authorities work to restore order amid ongoing demonstrations fueled by deep-rooted economic grievances.
