In brief
Mauritius, a long‑time tourist and financial hub, erupted into bloody riots after a protest over water shortages turned violent and a woman was shot by police. The police accused and arrested the officer, and Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam imposed an overnight curfew to restore order. Authorities reported damage to public facilities and warned foreign embassies of potential risks. Analysts say the unrest is unlike any since 1999 and that shortages may persist until December, prompting a cabinet meeting to decide next steps.
Mauritius in chaos: Curfew imposed after police shooting
Police in Mauritius imposed an overnight curfew to curb the worst riots the island has seen in decades.
Peaceful demonstrations that began a week earlier over acute water shortages and a high cost of living turned violent on Friday when a woman was shot and wounded at a roadblock. The circumstances of the shooting remain unclear, but the officer has been arrested and taken into custody.
Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam ordered the curfew on Tuesday, warning against those "acting against the interests of the country." He urged the public to face "heavy consequences" if they pursued anti‑patriotic acts. Authorities cited the need to protect public safety amid “unusual” security conditions.
The unrest saw protesters burn tyres, block roads, and vandalise police stations and other public infrastructure. Schools and public transport were shut, and foreign embassies issued travel cautions for their nationals.
Despite the curfew, police reported several incidents overnight and a number of arrests. By Wednesday morning, traffic resumed and officials urged citizens to return to normal activities.
When the protests began, the government responded by supplying additional water to households. Analysts noted that while this mitigated the crisis, lasting shortages are expected until the rainy season in December, increasing the likelihood of future protests. The cabinet will reconvene on Wednesday to reassess the situation and decide further measures.
