The Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navin Chandra Ramgoolam, announced in a televised speech on Tuesday evening that from 8:30 PM local time tonight, curfew regulations will be in effect in the country for a duration of 10 hours.
Reasons for Imposing Curfew Regulations
This measure has been taken following incidents in several regions of the country since Monday evening, where individuals set fire to various objects, blocked roads, vandalized police stations and shops, and burned vehicles.
In this speech, Ramgoolam described the violence as "unacceptable" and urged the general public to "show the utmost solidarity," emphasizing that "peace and harmony in the country depend on every Mauritian."
Investigations and Security Measures
According to the Prime Minister, information from multiple sources and the police indicates that these incidents are likely orchestrated by a group of individuals "financed and sent by drug traffickers." He added: "They are preparing to create disorder again tonight, and for this reason, the cabinet has decided to impose a curfew from 8:30 PM tonight until 6 AM tomorrow for the interests and safety of the population."
Ramgoolam also announced that special measures have been taken to address medical emergencies and essential services, and the cabinet will reconvene on Wednesday at 2:30 PM local time to decide on the next steps.
Reports indicate that this curfew will be enforced in several areas, including the capital, Port Louis. The occurrence of this violence comes amid tensions regarding water supply issues and public anger over the shooting and injuries inflicted on Elodie Thomas, a 27-year-old woman, during an incident with a police officer on Friday. This woman was reportedly shot without any apparent reason.
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