Ex-Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth Arrested in Money-Laundering Case

Port Louis: Former Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been arrested in connection with a money-laundering investigation, authorities confirmed on Sunday. The 63-year-old ex-leader, who served as prime minister from 2017 to 2024, was taken into custody along with his wife, Kobita Jugnauth, as police conducted a series of high-profile raids.

Jugnauth was placed under formal arrest in the early hours of Sunday, while his wife was later released after hours of interrogation.

Raids and Cash Seizures

According to police sources, officers searched the homes of several suspects, including a local leisure company employee and a real estate executive.

Authorities seized stacks of cash, luxury watches, and documents bearing the names of the Jugnauths. Suitcases full of various currencies were also recovered, local media reported.

A police notice issued by the Financial Crimes Commission on Saturday had instructed authorities to detain the Jugnauths and two other individuals if they attempted to leave the country. The notice cited an ongoing money-laundering investigation as the basis for the detention orders.

Jugnauth’s lawyer, Raouf Gulbul, dismissed the allegations, stating that his client had "given his version of events and denied all accusations." Jugnauth is expected to appear before a judge later on Sunday.

Political and Diplomatic Ramifications

Pravind Jugnauth, the leader of the Socialist Movement, comes from a political dynasty that has played a dominant role in Mauritian politics since the country gained independence from Britain in 1968.

During his tenure, Jugnauth played a pivotal role in securing a historic agreement with the UK over the disputed Chagos Islands, allowing Mauritius to regain sovereignty over the archipelago while permitting Britain and the U.S. to continue military operations on Diego Garcia.

However, Jugnauth suffered a landslide defeat in the November 2024 general elections, losing to centre-left rival Navin Ramgoolam, who became prime minister for the third time. The new government has since reopened negotiations on the Chagos deal, reportedly seeking greater financial compensation and a renegotiation of the military lease terms with the UK and the United States.

Mauritius Faces Political and Economic Challenges

The arrest comes at a time when Mauritius, despite its strong economic growth, is grappling with a cost-of-living crisis. Both Jugnauth and Ramgoolam’s election campaigns focused on improving living standards for ordinary Mauritians.

As legal proceedings against Jugnauth unfold, the case is likely to have far-reaching consequences for Mauritian politics and international relations.