In brief
In a shock to Mauritius’ usually calm political climate, violent clashes erupted as protests over water shortages escalated into riots. A police roadblock fired a shot at a woman, sparking widespread unrest that forced the government to impose an overnight curfew. Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam condemned the violence, calling for the heavy consequences for those found to be acting against the country’s interests. The curfew was lifted by Wednesday but authorities warn that riots could flare up again before the rainy season. Analysts predict the economic impact could be significant in Mauritius, a key tourism and financial services hub.
By Basillioh Rukanga | 1 hour ago
A wave of civil unrest has spread across Mauritius after a protester was shot by police, triggering the worst riots the island has seen in decades.
The violence erupted when peaceful demonstrations over prolonged water shortages and a soaring cost of living turned violent on Friday. Police confronted a crowd at a roadblock and a bullet struck a woman, though the exact circumstances remain unclear.
In response, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam ordered an overnight curfew on Tuesday, warning that those who acted against the nation’s interests would face serious repercussions."Those who have carried out these actions will have to face the very heavy consequences warranted by their anti‑patriotic acts," he said.
Protesters set fire to tyres, blocked roads, and vandalised police stations and other public infrastructure. The unrest prompted the closure of schools and public transport and brought alert notices from foreign embassies.
Despite the curfew, police reported several incidents overnight and a handful of arrests. By Wednesday morning, traffic had resumed and officials urged residents to return to normal routines.
Analysts note that while the curfew has mitigated the most severe unrest, further protests could erupt as water shortages are not expected to be fully resolved until the rainy season. The government plans to reconvene the cabinet on Wednesday afternoon to reassess the situation and decide on subsequent measures.
© BBC News – 2026‑10‑14
