A police officer from Mauritius, who has been promoted to the rank of Woman Chief Inspector of Police (WCIP), has been selected to attend an anti-corruption training program in the United States. The officer, who was previously assigned to the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (ADSU), is currently under investigation for alleged corruption. The training program, titled "Legal Aspects of Combating Corruption," is being held in Rhode Island.
The officer's investigation began in November 2020, when she was still a Woman Inspector of Police (WIP). The Independent Commission against Corruption (ICAC) launched an inquiry into allegations of corruption within the ADSU team led by Landing Step. The investigation focused on several police operations where large sums of money were reportedly taken. According to sources, the investigation is still ongoing.
One aspect of the investigation concerned a June 2, 2020, search at Baie-du-Tombeau. The property owner alleged that Rs 55,000 was taken by police officers and not returned. Three former team members were arrested in connection with this incident. Another part of the investigation involved a June 10, 2020, operation at a Port-Louis travel agency. Allegations suggest that Rs 10 million was taken during the operation, but the unit's records only accounted for a few hundred thousand rupees.
Despite the ongoing investigation, the officer was promoted and selected for the US training program. She departed Mauritius on October 26 to attend the course. This development has raised questions within the police force about the officer's participation in the training while under investigation.
The ICAC investigation also looked into the officer's role in the ADSU team. She was interviewed by ICAC investigators before being allowed to leave. The officer's promotion to WCIP and selection for the US training program have sparked concerns about the vetting process for such opportunities.
The US training program aims to enhance the officer's skills in combating corruption. However, the timing of her participation has been questioned given the ongoing investigation. The officer's case highlights the challenges of balancing accountability with opportunities for professional development within law enforcement agencies.
The Mauritius police force has not commented on the officer's participation in the training program. The ICAC investigation is ongoing, and it is unclear when a decision will be made on the officer's status. The case raises important questions about the integrity of the police force and the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures.
Key points
- A Mauritius police officer under investigation for alleged corruption has been selected for US anti-corruption training.
- The officer's investigation began in November 2020 and is still ongoing.
- The case raises concerns about the vetting process for professional development opportunities within the police force.
