A joint operation by the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (ADSU) led to the dismantling of a suspected drug trafficking network operating in a public infrastructure. On Friday, 18 September 2026, at around 11:20 am, officers from the anti-drug brigade raided the Balisson sewage pumping station, arresting three individuals on the premises. The arrested persons are a 33-year-old man from Candos and two 34-year-old men, one from Quatre Bornes and the other from Glen Park, Vacoas.
During the raid, law enforcement officers seized several pieces of evidence, including three mobile phones (Samsung, iPhone, and Nokia) and a sum of Rs 13,800, suspected to be proceeds from the drug trade. The police also found a white plastic container with four packets of cannabis (10g in total), a transparent "Bacofoil" bag containing 41g of cannabis branches, and another bag with 14g of the same substance.
In addition to the narcotics, the police discovered equipment intended for packaging the drug. The seized items included an electric rechargeable black scale with cannabis residue, two grey pocket electronic scales also with leaf residue, and a portable "Hong Duan" air pump. The officers also confiscated twelve large hermetic bags with air extraction valves, seven large zippered plastic bags, an Adidas black sports bag, two large black bags, and a duffel bag containing cannabis residue.
A brown Toyota Double Cab 4x4 vehicle, registered WP 81, was also seized as part of the investigation. The suspects were taken for questioning, and the 33-year-old from Candos and the 34-year-old from Quatre Bornes were detained, while the 34-year-old from Glen Park was released on parole. The investigation is ongoing.
The successful operation highlights the efforts of the authorities to combat drug trafficking in Mauritius. The ADSU continues to work to identify and dismantle networks involved in the production, distribution, and sale of narcotics. The police urge the public to report any suspicious activities that may aid in the fight against drug trafficking.
The suspects' detention and the seizure of equipment and substances indicate that the authorities are taking a firm stance against drug-related crimes. Further details about the suspects and their alleged roles in the trafficking network have not been disclosed, as the investigation is still underway.
The case is a significant development in the ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in Mauritius. The authorities have not provided information on potential connections to larger trafficking networks or the origin of the seized cannabis. The investigation is expected to continue, with further updates to be provided as more information becomes available.
Key points
- Three suspects were arrested at a pumping station in Balisson, Mauritius, with cannabis and equipment for packaging and sale.
- The seized items included cannabis, mobile phones, and equipment for packaging and weighing the drug.
- Two of the suspects were detained, while one was released on parole, as the investigation continues.
