Former Mauritian premier arrested in money laundering probe

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) – The most recent Mauritian prime minister and his wife were arrested Sunday as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation, their lawyer announced.

Pravind Jugnauth and his wife Kobita Raouf Gulbul are cooperating with authorities, the lawyer told reporters.

The Financial Crimes Commission, which is leading the inquiry, also confirmed the arrest, adding that it resulted in the seizure of approximately 114 million Mauritian rupees (about $2.4 million) during searches at various locations, including the couple’s residence.

Officials seized three suitcases and a bag filled with both local and foreign currency, as well as high-end watches, including five Cartier timepieces.

The arrest has sparked widespread reactions, with opposition figures demanding full transparency.

Roshi Bhadain, leader of the Reform Party, called on authorities to ensure accountability, describing the situation as a test for judicial integrity in the East African island nation

Pravind Jugnauth, who served as prime minister from 2017 to 2024, has faced legal scrutiny in the past. In 2011, he was arrested in connection with the MedPoint Affair but was later acquitted.

MedPoint was a high-profile corruption scandal involving the purchase of a private hospital by the government at an allegedly inflated price.

The crimes commission has not yet disclosed specific charges against the former leader, and the government has not issued an official statement on the case.