Mauritius has imposed a curfew across parts of the island following violent protests triggered by a police shooting. The unrest comes amid growing public frustration over water shortages and rising living costs.
The restrictions began on Tuesday evening, October 13, and continued into Wednesday morning. Authorities introduced the measures across 10 administrative regions, mainly around urban areas.
According to AFP, the protests intensified after a police officer shot and seriously wounded a woman, prompting further demonstrations and incidents of violence.
Police shooting intensifies Mauritius protests
The unrest began before the shooting, as residents protested water shortages and the rising cost of living.
Demonstrators blocked several roads with burning tyres, disrupting traffic in affected areas.
Tensions escalated after a police officer shot a woman in the neck.
Witnesses told AFP that the officer opened fire without warning. Authorities subsequently arrested the officer, who appeared before the courts.
The injured woman remains in hospital.
According to local media, a team of Indian surgeons travelled to Mauritius to assist with her treatment. Doctors successfully removed the bullet.
The shooting intensified public anger and contributed to further unrest.
Mauritius curfew covers 10 administrative regions
Authorities introduced a curfew covering approximately one-third of the island.
The restrictions affected 10 administrative regions, mainly on the outskirts of towns.
The government said the measures aimed to restore order following several incidents of violence.
Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam warned that those responsible for attacks and destruction would face legal consequences.
He said authorities would identify individuals involved in the unrest and hold them accountable.
Meanwhile, security forces increased their presence in affected areas.
An AFP correspondent reported no further outbreaks of violence during the first hours of the curfew on Tuesday evening.
Looting and attacks reported during unrest
Several incidents of looting followed the police shooting.
According to AFP, protesters targeted at least two supermarkets during the unrest.
Police stations also came under attack, leaving several officers injured.
The incidents raised concerns about public safety and the possibility of further demonstrations.
Authorities have not released a comprehensive assessment of the damage.
The government has also not confirmed whether additional security restrictions will be necessary.
Foreign embassies warn citizens in Mauritius
The unrest prompted foreign embassies to issue safety advice to their nationals.
The British embassy warned that further protests could occur and advised citizens to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings.
Similarly, the French embassy urged French nationals living in or visiting Mauritius to exercise caution.
The warnings reflect concerns about possible disruptions to travel and daily activities.
Mauritius is a major tourism destination, attracting international visitors to its beaches and coastal resorts.
However, the report did not establish that the unrest had caused widespread disruption to tourism operations.
Water shortages and living costs fuel public frustration
The protests have drawn attention to economic and social pressures facing residents.
Water shortages have become a major concern in affected communities.
At the same time, rising living costs have increased pressure on household budgets.
These grievances contributed to demonstrations before the police shooting intensified tensions.
Mauritius has traditionally enjoyed a reputation for political stability and economic development.
Since gaining independence from Britain in 1968, the country has diversified beyond sugar production.
Tourism, textiles and financial services now play important roles in its economy.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic placed significant pressure on economic activity, particularly tourism.
Authorities seek to restore calm
The Mauritius curfew marks a significant response to unrest on an island better known for its political stability and tourism industry.
Authorities are seeking to prevent further violence while addressing the consequences of the police shooting.
The officer involved has been arrested, and the injured woman continues to receive medical treatment.
Meanwhile, public concerns over water shortages and living costs remain unresolved.
The situation will depend on whether calm continues after the curfew and how authorities respond to the grievances behind the demonstrations.