Authorities in Mauritius have ended a nighttime curfew that was introduced last week during a rare spell of violent demonstrations. The government announced on Monday that a “favourable evolution of the situation” had made the decision possible.
The protests on the Indian Ocean island started last week over water shortages and rising living costs. Violence escalated after a police officer shot and seriously wounded a woman on Saturday. In a statement, the office of Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam said: “The curfew currently in effect will not be extended, effective today.”
Roads reopen and schools resume across Mauritius
The tourism operator Mauritius Tours confirmed on its website that the last curfew ended at 4:30am on Monday 19 October and had not been renewed. It said roads were open, all schools had reopened with lessons running as normal, and everyday life was returning to its usual rhythm.
The British government, in an update to its travel advice, said temporary curfews had covered most areas of the main island from 12 to 18 October. It urged visitors to avoid protests, with a warning to “Stay away from demonstrations and large public gatherings” and to follow local authorities.
Arrests and court appearance after police shooting
At least 188 people were arrested in the days that followed, on charges including looting, arson, damage to police stations and possession of explosives. Authorities said the police officer who shot the woman in the neck had been arrested and brought before a court.
Mauritius is usually regarded as a model of stability and prosperity in Africa. The last major unrest occurred in 1999, when a well-known singer died in police custody.
