The Mauritius Police Force has made a significant seizure of approximately 1.5 tons of cannabis and hashish, estimated to be worth Rs 2.7 billion, on a yacht named "Dreamer". The operation, which took place on October 21, 2026, involved officers from the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (ADSU), the Maritime Intelligence Cell of the National Coast Guard, and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Section. The yacht was intercepted in Mauritian waters, leading to the arrest of its crew and the seizure of a large quantity of narcotics.
The investigation has led to the arrest of 14 individuals, including nine Thai nationals, four Mauritian citizens, and one police officer assigned to the National Coast Guard (NCG). The arrested individuals were taken into custody and provisionally charged with drug-related offenses at the Port-Louis South District Court. The police also secured two other boats suspected to be linked to the case. Authorities are working to determine the origin and intended destination of the seized narcotics.
The captain of the yacht, Suriya Samanboot, and six other Thai crew members were initially arrested. Their mobile phones were confiscated for further investigation. Two additional Thai nationals were apprehended at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, while four Mauritian suspects were also taken into custody on suspicion of conspiracy to import drugs. The involvement of a police officer among the suspects raises questions about potential complicity or lapses in maritime surveillance.
The authorities have discovered that the yacht had been traveling between Mauritius and Thailand this year, sparking concerns about the possibility of multiple voyages. Investigators aim to verify the number of trips made, the dates, and the objectives of these journeys. They also seek to establish whether the same individuals were on board and if other boats were used in the operation.
The presence of a police officer among the arrested individuals adds a layer of complexity to the investigation. It raises questions about the circumstances of his involvement and potential collusion with the suspects. Authorities must examine the possibility of corruption or prior knowledge of the yacht's movements. Some observers suggest that the rotation of personnel within surveillance units could be a factor in preventing long-term relationships between agents and operators.
The intended destination of the seized narcotics remains a significant unknown. Several areas in the north of the island, including Baie-du-Tombeau and Sainte-Croix, have been mentioned as potential targets. Investigators must identify the intended recipients and determine if local networks were involved. The authorities also need to verify if any part of the cargo had been offloaded before the interception.
The financing of the operation is another crucial aspect under investigation. Authorities aim to uncover who provided the funds, how payments were made, and what returns were expected for those involved. The investigation is ongoing, with multiple agencies working together to unravel the complexities of the case and bring those responsible to justice.
Key points
- 14 people arrested in connection with the seizure of 1.5 tons of cannabis and hashish on yacht "Dreamer"
- Seized narcotics estimated to be worth Rs 2.7 billion
- Investigation ongoing to determine intended destination and financing of the operation
