In a high-profile development, former Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been released on bail after being arrested on charges of money laundering, a magistrate confirmed on Sunday. The arrest followed a sweeping operation by the state-run Financial Crimes Commission, which raided Jugnauth’s residence and several other locations, seizing 114 million Mauritius rupees (approximately $2.5 million) allegedly linked to illicit financial activities.
Magistrate Rishan Chineah, presiding over the bail and remand court in the capital, Port Louis, imposed strict conditions for Jugnauth’s release. The former prime minister has been barred from interfering, directly or indirectly, with any witnesses or potential witnesses in the case. Additionally, Jugnauth is prohibited from discussing the matter with anyone other than investigative authorities or the court itself. He has been ordered to return to court on Monday to complete the bail formalities.
Jugnauth’s lawyer, Raouf Gulbul, addressed the media shortly after the hearing, asserting that his client “categorically denies” the charges. The director of public prosecution, however, presented a charge sheet to the court, formally accusing Jugnauth of provisional charges related to money laundering.
This arrest is part of a broader crackdown on financial crimes in Mauritius, which has seen a series of high-profile investigations in recent months. In November, current Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam ordered an audit of public finances, citing concerns over the accuracy of government data compiled during Jugnauth’s administration. The move signaled a renewed focus on transparency and accountability in the wake of allegations of financial mismanagement.
Last month, the former governor of Mauritius’ central bank was also detained and later released on bail, facing charges of conspiracy to commit fraud. These cases highlight the government’s intensified efforts to tackle corruption and financial misconduct, particularly within its institutions.
Mauritius, an Indian Ocean archipelago renowned for its pristine beaches and thriving tourism industry, is also a significant offshore financial hub. The country has long marketed itself as a strategic gateway for investment and business between Africa and Asia, attracting international investors and financial institutions. However, its status as a financial center has also made it vulnerable to allegations of money laundering and other financial crimes, prompting authorities to take stricter measures to safeguard its reputation.
The case against Jugnauth, a prominent political figure who served as prime minister from 2017 to 2020, has drawn widespread attention both domestically and internationally. It underscores the challenges faced by Mauritius in balancing its role as a global financial center with the need to combat corruption and ensure accountability among its leaders.
As the investigation unfolds, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for Mauritius’ political landscape and its standing as a transparent and stable financial jurisdiction. For now, all eyes remain on the courts as the legal proceedings against Jugnauth continue.