Mauritius is facing its worst riots in decades following the shooting of a woman by police during a peaceful protest. The unrest, which began over water shortages and the high cost of living, escalated into violence on Friday after the incident at a roadblock.
Curfew Imposed
In response to the riots, police imposed an overnight curfew to restore order. Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam ordered the curfew on Tuesday, warning against actions that threaten the country’s interests. He stated,
“"Those who have carried out these actions will have to face the very heavy consequences warranted by their anti-patriotic acts."
Escalation of Protests
Protesters reacted by burning tyres and blocking roads, leading to vandalism of police stations and public infrastructure. The violence prompted the closure of schools and public transport, with foreign embassies advising their nationals to exercise caution.
