The Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (Adsu) of Mauritius is probing Nishal D., a Mauritian with British nationality, as the key figure in a cannabis trafficking ring. The investigation follows the seizure of 1.5 tons of cannabis on the yacht Dreamer off the coast of Ile Ronde on October 19-20. Authorities believe Nishal D. orchestrated the shipment from Thailand, using a complex communication strategy to avoid direct involvement.
Nishal D. is considered a crucial element in unraveling the trafficking network, which is believed to extend beyond Mauritius. An "Arrest on Arrival" order has been issued against him by the Passport & Immigration Office (PIO) at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. His possible return to Mauritius could significantly advance the investigation. Authorities are examining his lifestyle, relationships, and activities in Asia.
The investigation reveals that Nishal D. has a history of involvement in drug trafficking. In 2012, he was arrested in a "Controlled Delivery" operation by Adsu, where a package from England containing 20.48 grams of cannabis was intercepted. He allegedly left Mauritius for the UK and later settled in Thailand, where he manages a nightclub in Phuket. His name has resurfaced in several inquiries related to cannabis seizures at Plaisance Airport.
Local operatives are also being investigated for their alleged roles in the trafficking ring. Roy Dan Dussoye and Marie Kate Stéphanie Hermance were arrested in the East of Mauritius with 792 grams of cannabis valued at Rs 1.4 million. Another suspect, Jean Percy Yani Ramtohul, is under investigation for his suspected connection to a boat. Three men, Kurth Lindley Louis, Jean Personne Sando Vletino Thomas, and Kailash Seebaluck, are believed to have retrieved drug parcels near Ile Ronde.
Authorities have arrested several individuals, including an employee of the port area, Bryan Fu Kin Lew Tin Wah, on suspicion of transporting the three men. Two National Coast Guard (NCG) officers, constable Kevin Rangilal and Bhavish Dhruv Bhunjun, are detained for allegedly facilitating the transmission of confidential information to the Dreamer's captain. The suspects are believed to have helped the yacht and associated boats evade surveillance.
Eighteen people have been arrested so far, including nine Thai nationals and nine Mauritians. However, the 1.5-ton cannabis cargo remains missing. Authorities hope that questioning Nishal D. will help uncover the network and identify those who financed, organized, and received the drugs. The investigation is ongoing, with multiple agencies working together to dismantle the trafficking ring.
The case highlights the complexity of international drug trafficking networks and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in disrupting these operations. The cooperation between Mauritian and international authorities will be crucial in bringing those responsible to justice and preventing future trafficking activities.
Key points
- Nishal D. is a key figure in the cannabis trafficking ring and is wanted by Mauritian authorities.
- The investigation involves multiple agencies and countries, including Mauritius, Thailand, and the UK.
- The 1.5-ton cannabis cargo remains missing, and authorities hope to recover it through further investigations.
