Mauritius' Former Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth Arrested on Money Laundering Charges

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 detained at Moka detention centre in central Mauritius.

Jugnauth’s arrest followed extensive searches by FCC detectives at multiple locations, including his residence, where 114 million Mauritius Rupees ($2.4 million) were seized. Jugnauth’s lawyer, Raouf Gulbul, said his client has been provisionally charged with money laundering but denies all allegations.

This arrest comes after Mauritius' new Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam announced an audit of public finances in November, raising concerns about the accuracy of financial data from the previous administration. Last month, the country’s former central bank governor was also detained and later released on bail after being charged with conspiracy to commit fraud.

Mauritius, an Indian Ocean archipelago, is known as an offshore financial hub linking Africa and Asia. The arrest of a former prime minister and financial authorities highlights growing scrutiny of the country's financial system and political landscape. Jugnauth’s detention marks a significant development in Mauritius’ political and economic affairs, with potential long-term implications for its global financial reputation.