Mauritius’ former Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been arrested on money laundering charges, following a financial crimes investigation that led to the seizure of $2.4 million from his residence, authorities confirmed on Sunday.
Former Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been arrested on money laundering charges, according to the state-run Financial Crimes Commission (FCC).
FCC spokesperson Ibrahim Rossaye confirmed Jugnauth’s arrest early Sunday, stating that he will be held at Moka detention centre in central Mauritius. The arrest follows a series of searches conducted by FCC detectives at various locations, including Jugnauth’s residence, where authorities seized 114 million Mauritius Rupees (approximately $2.4 million).
Jugnauth’s lawyer, Raouf Gulbul, confirmed that his client has been provisionally charged but denies any wrongdoing.
This development comes amid heightened scrutiny of Mauritius’ financial practices. In November, newly elected Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam announced an audit of public finances, raising concerns about data compiled by the previous administration.
The arrest of Jugnauth follows last month’s detention of the country’s former central bank governor, who was charged with conspiracy to commit fraud before being released on bail.
Mauritius, an Indian Ocean archipelago, is a key offshore financial centre, positioning itself as a gateway between Africa and Asia. The case is expected to draw significant regional and international attention.
