Mauritius has lifted its nighttime curfew following days of violent protests over rising living costs and water shortages, which resulted in at least 188 arrests.
The government announced on Monday, October 19, that improving security conditions had allowed authorities to end the restrictions.
According to AFP, as reported by Al Jazeera, the unrest intensified after a police officer shot and seriously wounded a woman during the demonstrations.
The decision to lift the curfew marks an important step towards restoring normal life in the Indian Ocean island nation.
Mauritius curfew ends as calm returns
Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam’s office confirmed that the nighttime curfew would not be extended.
The restrictions ended at 4:30am on Monday, October 19.
Authorities said the security situation had improved enough to allow normal activities to resume.
Roads reopened, schools resumed classes and businesses began returning to their usual operations.
The curfew had covered most areas of Mauritius’s main island during evenings and overnight hours.
Officials introduced the restrictions following several days of unrest.
Protests erupt over rising living costs and water shortages
The demonstrations began amid growing public frustration over the cost of living and water shortages.
However, tensions escalated after a police officer shot a woman in the neck during the unrest.
The woman suffered serious injuries, triggering further anger and violent demonstrations.
Authorities subsequently arrested the officer involved in the shooting and brought him before a court.
The incident added to concerns about police conduct and the government’s response to public grievances.
At least 188 arrested during Mauritius protests
Police arrested at least 188 people following the outbreak of violence.
Authorities reported incidents involving looting, arson and damage to police stations.
Some suspects also faced allegations involving possession of explosives.
The unrest prompted security forces to introduce nighttime restrictions in an effort to restore order.
However, the government has now ended the curfew after assessing improvements in the security situation.
UK updates travel advice for Mauritius
The protests also prompted the United Kingdom to update its travel guidance for Mauritius.
British authorities warned travellers to avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings.
They also advised visitors to follow instructions from local officials.
The updated guidance noted that temporary curfews had been in place between October 12 and October 19.
Mauritius remains a popular international tourism destination, making the restoration of normal conditions important for the country’s economy.
Rare unrest challenges Mauritius’s reputation for stability
Mauritius is widely regarded as one of Africa’s more politically stable and prosperous countries.
However, the recent demonstrations have highlighted concerns over living costs and access to essential services.
The island nation has experienced relatively few episodes of major unrest in recent decades.
One of its previous significant periods of unrest occurred in 1999, following the death of a well-known singer in police custody.
The latest protests have renewed attention on public frustration and the challenges facing the government.
Mauritius seeks return to normal life
With the curfew lifted, authorities are working to maintain calm and restore confidence.
Schools have reopened, roads are accessible and daily activities have resumed.
However, the concerns that triggered the demonstrations, including rising living costs and water shortages, remain important issues.
The government also faces questions over the police shooting that intensified the unrest.
As Mauritius returns to normal activities, attention will turn to how authorities address public grievances and prevent further violence.