30 Seized in New Caledonia

Militant Kanaks held at least 30 people hostage on an island in France’s troubled territory of New Caledonia, a territorial spokesman said. The Kanaks, indigenous Melanesians who are seeking independence, seized security guards who were waiting at the airport for the arrival of territorial assembly chief Dick Ukeiwe. Ukeiwe, hearing of the seizure, remained in Noumea, the capital. Leaders of the Kanaks denounced the security guards as “commandos.” Official sources reported that attempts were being made to negotiate with the militants.