Mauritius’ former Prime Minister, Pravind Jugnauth, has been arrested and faces money laundering charges, the country’s Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) announced early Sunday.
FCC spokesperson Ibrahim Rossaye confirmed the arrest, stating that Jugnauth is being held at the Moka detention center in the central district of Moka.
The arrest follows extensive searches by FCC investigators at multiple locations, including Jugnauth’s residence. Authorities reportedly seized 114 million Mauritius Rupees ($2.4 million) during the operation.
Jugnauth’s lawyer, Raouf Gulbul, told reporters that his client has been provisionally charged with money laundering but denies any wrongdoing.
This development comes amid increased scrutiny of public finances under the new government. In November, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam launched an audit to assess financial data reported by the previous administration.
Last month, the former governor of the Bank of Mauritius was also detained and later released on bail after being charged with conspiracy to commit fraud.
Mauritius, an Indian Ocean island nation, is known as an offshore financial hub, positioning itself as a key gateway between Africa and Asia.
SOURCE: Reuters
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