The Mauritius police have issued a statement highlighting the diligent work of investigators from the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (ADSU) in the case of Lisa Lily Romain, a French national arrested in March 2026. According to the police, the investigation into Romain's alleged involvement in a major drug trafficking network has led to the arrest of ten individuals and the dismantling of a significant portion of the "Réseau de La Rosa" network. The police emphasized that the complex nature of such investigations requires meticulous and prolonged efforts.

The police statement was released in response to an article published in Le Défi Plus, which alleged that Romain had been subjected to improper treatment while in custody, including alleged sexual relations with a constable and a birthday celebration in an ADSUI office. The police have denied any wrongdoing and stressed that the ADSUI investigators have conducted their work with professionalism and integrity. The unit has also arrested several police officers implicated in the network.

Romain, who is currently in detention, is accused of importing 16 kg of drugs into Mauritius. The ADSUI operation that led to her arrest also resulted in the seizure of over Rs 60 million worth of narcotics intended for the local market. The police have acknowledged the gravity of the case and the importance of upholding the highest standards in their investigations.

According to the police, the ADSUI investigators have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in unraveling the complex web of the "Réseau de La Rosa" network. The unit's work has not only led to significant arrests but also disrupted a major drug trafficking operation. The police have emphasized their commitment to transparency and accountability in their investigations.

The alleged improper treatment of Romain while in custody has sparked controversy, with Le Défi Plus publishing details of an alleged birthday celebration in an ADSUI office. The police have assured the public that they take all allegations seriously and will investigate any claims of misconduct. However, they have also stressed that the ADSUI investigators have acted with professionalism and integrity throughout the investigation.

The case has raised concerns about the involvement of police officers in drug trafficking networks and the need for greater oversight and accountability within the police force. The police have assured the public that they are taking steps to address these concerns and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The investigation into Romain's alleged involvement in the "Réseau de La Rosa" network is ongoing, with further arrests and seizures expected. The police have commended the ADSUI investigators for their hard work and dedication to bringing the perpetrators to justice. The case highlights the complexities and challenges of combating drug trafficking in Mauritius.

Key points

  • The ADSUI investigators have arrested ten individuals and seized over Rs 60 million worth of narcotics in the case of Lisa Lily Romain.
  • The police have denied allegations of wrongdoing and stressed that the ADSUI investigators have conducted their work with professionalism and integrity.
  • The case has raised concerns about the involvement of police officers in drug trafficking networks and the need for greater oversight and accountability within the police force.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.