Former Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been arrested in connection with a money-laundering investigation, police confirmed on Sunday. The 63-year-old politician, who led the island nation from 2017 to 2024, was taken into custody alongside his wife, Kobita Jugnauth, in the early hours of the day. However, she was later released after hours of questioning.
According to police sources, stacks of cash were seized from a business linked to Jugnauth during the probe. Officers also discovered luxury watches and documents bearing the couple’s names at the residence of another suspect. The Financial Crimes Commission had earlier issued a notice on Saturday instructing authorities to detain the Jugnauths and two other suspects if they attempted to leave the country.
Jugnauth was expected to appear before a judge later on Sunday as investigations continued. His arrest marks a significant development in the political landscape of Mauritius, which has long been dominated by political dynasties since its independence from Britain in 1968.
During his tenure, Jugnauth played a key role in securing a historic agreement with Britain regarding Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Islands, a long-disputed territory. The deal allowed Britain to retain a lease for a joint US military base on Diego Garcia, an island within the Chagos archipelago. Both the British and Mauritian governments have stated that the final terms of the agreement could involve input from former US President Donald Trump’s administration.
The arrest comes months after Jugnauth’s party, the Militant Socialist Movement, suffered a crushing defeat in the November 2024 general elections. His main opponent, Navin Ramgoolam, returned to power for a third term as prime minister, leading the centre-left coalition. The election campaign was marked by pledges from both sides to address economic challenges, particularly the rising cost of living, despite Mauritius experiencing strong economic growth.
Jugnauth’s detention is expected to have significant political ramifications. His party and supporters are likely to challenge the legitimacy of the charges, while the new government under Ramgoolam may use the case to further distance itself from past corruption allegations.
As legal proceedings unfold, the case will be closely watched both domestically and internationally, given its potential impact on Mauritius’ political stability and its foreign relations, particularly concerning the Chagos Islands agreement.
