Mauritius Extends Night Curfew Following Riots, Keeps Schools Shut for the Week

Mauritius Extends Curfew After Days of Unrest

Mauritius has extended its overnight curfew for two additional nights following days of protests, clashes and looting that have disrupted normal activities across parts of the island. The government has also announced that schools will remain closed for the rest of the week, except for institutions where students are sitting international examinations.

The latest restrictions follow an initial curfew introduced on Tuesday, 13 October, after demonstrations escalated into violence. The unrest has placed pressure on public services and prompted authorities to increase security measures while seeking to restore order.

According to reports published on 15 October, the curfew applies from 8:30 p.m. until 5 a.m. the following morning on Wednesday and Thursday nights. Residents are being urged to follow official instructions and avoid areas where disturbances have occurred.

Schools Remain Closed for the Rest of the Week

The government has decided to keep schools closed for the remainder of the week because of continuing security concerns.

The closure affects the normal school schedule, while an exception has been made for students taking international examinations. The decision follows earlier disruptions on Tuesday, when educational institutions closed and examinations scheduled for that day were postponed.

The extended closure is intended to reduce disruption to students and families while the authorities assess the security situation.

Parents and students should follow announcements from the Ministry of Education for information about reopening arrangements and any changes to examination schedules.

Protests Escalate Following Police Shooting

The unrest began with public demonstrations over water shortages and the rising cost of living. Tensions intensified after a police officer shot and wounded 27-year-old Elodie Thomas on 9 October.

Thomas was reportedly travelling home from work in a van when the shooting occurred in the Beau Bassin–Rose Hill area. The Health Ministry said she underwent surgery to remove a bullet. Local media subsequently reported that a police sergeant had been charged in connection with the incident.

The shooting triggered further public anger and protests. Demonstrators blocked roads, burned tyres and clashed with police in several locations.

The incident is now subject to investigation, including scrutiny of the actions of officers involved and the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Riots and Looting Lead to Multiple Arrests

Authorities have reported arrests linked to the unrest, with police stepping up deployments in areas affected by violence.

A report published on 15 October said 94 people had been arrested since the riots began, including 16 minors and one police officer. The same report stated that seven police officers had been injured. The reported arrests relate to various incidents, including looting, arson, damage to public infrastructure and alleged breaches of curfew orders.

The government has warned that people involved in violence and destruction may face serious legal consequences.

Authorities are continuing investigations into the incidents, while police have maintained that restoring public order remains a priority.

Government Seeks to Restore Public Order

Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam introduced the initial curfew after the unrest intensified. The government subsequently extended the restrictions as a precautionary measure.

The curfew is intended to limit movement during overnight hours and give security forces greater scope to respond to incidents. Residents should check official announcements for the precise restrictions applying to their area, including any exemptions or changes to timings.

The government is also considering additional measures in response to the violence, according to reporting by Hindustan Times. These include tighter controls on the sale of petrol in portable containers following reports that fuel was used to make incendiary devices. Any proposed changes should be distinguished from measures that have formally come into force.

Public Transport and Daily Activities Disrupted

The unrest has also affected transportation and everyday activities. Earlier disruptions included the suspension of Metro Express services, temporary interruptions to bus operations and road obstructions in affected areas. Business Mauritius recommended that member companies consider remote working and flexible schedules where practical.

The latest curfew extension may continue to affect evening travel and business operations. Residents are advised to confirm transport schedules before travelling and to avoid unnecessary journeys during restricted hours.

Employers and service providers may also need to adjust working arrangements while the situation remains uncertain.

Water Shortages and Cost of Living Remain Underlying Concerns

The demonstrations did not emerge from a single issue. Public frustration over water shortages and the rising cost of living preceded the escalation following the police shooting.

Water supply interruptions have affected households in several communities, adding pressure to families already dealing with the cost of essential goods and services. The protests reflect wider concerns about access to basic services and the response to public grievances.

While restoring security is an immediate government priority, addressing these underlying concerns will also be important to reducing tensions and rebuilding public confidence.

What Happens Next?

The authorities will need to assess the security situation as the extended curfew continues. Further announcements are expected to clarify school reopening arrangements, examination schedules, transport services and any additional public safety measures.

Investigations into the police shooting and the incidents of violence are also continuing. The outcome of these processes will be important in establishing individual responsibility and determining what further action is required.

Residents should rely on official government, police and education ministry communications for updates, particularly where local restrictions or exemptions may differ.

Final Thought

Mauritius’ decision to extend the night curfew and keep schools closed for the remainder of the week reflects the seriousness of the recent unrest. The immediate priority is to protect residents, restore public order and allow essential services to operate safely.

At the same time, the events underline the importance of investigating the police shooting transparently and addressing the concerns over water supply and living costs that preceded the violence.

The coming days will be important for determining whether security conditions improve sufficiently for schools, transport and other public activities to return to their normal schedules.