The Financial Crimes Commission in Mauritius has restarted an investigation into Assistant Superintendent Rajcoomar Seewoo and four former members of an elite police intelligence unit. This follows an affidavit filed last week alleging a Rs 3 million bribe was demanded from two men arrested in July 2024. The operation involved intercepting cannabis shipped from Réunion, with a tracking AirTag used to monitor the parcel.
According to the affidavit, the operation unfolded with a speedboat chase, the arrest of two suspects, and seizure of their cars. However, the drugs were never recovered. Seewoo, who headed the Special Intelligence Cell, is among those named in the document and will be questioned by the Commission within days. The affidavit's author, a former unit member, claims he worked on the operation.
In a separate incident, residents of Clairfonds in Phoenix took to the streets after four days without water. The protest, which involved blocked roads and threats to burn tyres, ended when the Central Water Authority provided two tankers. Energy Minister Assirvaden, who was abroad, stated through his technical adviser that water supply would be restored. Local MP Khushal Lobine has called for an urgent meeting with the Central Water Authority.
The government has also been dealing with a case involving a French detainee, Lily Romain, whose account of events was initially disputed. However, after being shown CCTV footage, a Sodnac officer reportedly corroborated her story, alleging she was released from her cell before dawn and returned around 6am. The officer and another policewoman on duty face scrutiny over gaps in the station diary.
On World Teachers' Day, the government initiated consultations on a legal framework to address indiscipline and violence in schools. Education Minister Gungapersad emphasized the need for protection for teachers and support for troubled children. The framework's effectiveness will depend on its enforcement and the powers granted to those implementing it.
In other news, Agriterra has successfully harvested its first experimental crop of sweet potatoes, yielding ten tonnes. The company is also expanding its macadamia production as part of efforts to enhance food security and reduce reliance on imported food. The success of these initiatives will be measured by their scalability and impact on local food production.
The government has also been engaged in talks with Meta on online safety and platform cooperation. Additionally, Junior Minister Savabaddy has ordered an inquiry into an altercation between a tourist couple and coast guard officers. These developments come as the country continues to address various challenges, including infrastructure issues and economic diversification.
Key points
- The Financial Crimes Commission's investigation into ASP Seewoo and others is linked to a Rs 3 million bribe claim.
- Residents of Clairfonds protested after four days without water.
- The government has initiated consultations on a legal framework to address school violence.
