Élodie Thomas, a 27-year-old mother of a two-year-old girl, was shot by a police sergeant, Gautam Singh Taukoor, on Friday evening while returning home from work in a van. The incident occurred in Camp-Levieux, and Thomas was immediately taken to Victoria Hospital in Candos, where she is currently in critical condition at the intensive care unit. Her husband, Jonathan Thomas, is anxiously waiting for updates on her condition.
According to the van driver, Tirvassen Soobrayen, he was stopped by the police sergeant, who pointed his gun at him and threatened him before a shot was fired. Soobrayen claims that the sergeant opened the door of the van, pointed his gun at his head, and said, "Eski to anvi gagn enn kout bal la?" (Do you want to take a bullet?). Fearing for his life, Soobrayen drove away, and a few meters later, he heard a gunshot that shattered the rear window of the van, hitting Thomas.
The police sergeant, Gautam Singh Taukoor, was arrested and appeared before the Bail and Remand Court on Saturday. He has been provisionally charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. The police opposed his release on bail, and he was remanded in custody at the Moka detention center. The circumstances surrounding the shooting are still under investigation.
Élodie Thomas's condition remains critical, and her family is anxiously waiting for an improvement in her health. Her husband, Jonathan, has been staying with his parents in Plaisance, Rose-Hill, due to their health issues. The family is hopeful that the arrival of four doctors from India, scheduled for Monday, will bring a positive outcome. The doctors' visit was arranged by Senior Counsel Rama Valayden, who is representing the family.
Senior Counsel Rama Valayden has requested the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to reconsider the charges against the police sergeant and to upgrade them to attempt to murder, given the severity of the circumstances. Valayden also stated that the four doctors from India could not arrive earlier due to train disruptions in India. The family and supporters, including several politicians and public figures, are rallying around Jonathan Thomas and his family during this difficult time.
Several prominent figures, including Neelkant Dulloo, Paul Bérenger, Joanna Bérenger, Chetan Baboolall, Rama Valayden, Gabriella Batour, and Sydney Pierre, visited the Thomas family to offer their support. Sydney Pierre accompanied Jonathan Thomas to the hospital to visit his wife. As the investigation continues, the family and friends of Élodie Thomas remain hopeful that her condition will improve with the help of the medical team.
The incident has sparked widespread concern and outrage, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The police and authorities are working to establish the facts and determine the sequence of events leading to the shooting. The community is rallying around the Thomas family, offering support and prayers for Élodie's recovery.
Key points
- A 27-year-old woman, Élodie Thomas, was shot by a police sergeant in Camp-Levieux, Mauritius, and is in critical condition at Victoria Hospital in Candos.
- The police sergeant, Gautam Singh Taukoor, has been charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and is being held in custody.
- Four doctors from India are expected to arrive on Monday to assist with Élodie Thomas's treatment, and the family is hopeful for an improvement in her condition.
