New Caledonia independence leader charged after deadly riots

A pro-independence leader in the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia has been charged following deadly riots last month.

Christian Tein, head of the group CCAT ("field action coordination cell"), was arrested on Wednesday alongside several others. CCAT is accused of organising the protests that descended into violence.

Nine people including two police officers were been killed and hundreds more wounded after riots, looting and arson gripped the archipelago.