Police (Amendment) Bill 2025: Government Relies on Foreign Expertise to Strengthen Police Investigations
The Police (Amendment) Bill 2025 is part of the government's 2025-2029 program, which aims to modernize institutions, enhance the capabilities of law enforcement, and build public trust. Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam made this statement on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, during the second reading of the Police (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the National Assembly.
This bill seeks to amend the Police Act of 1974 to strengthen the investigative capabilities of the Mauritius Police Force (MPF), improve institutional integrity, and boost public confidence in the administration of justice.
The amendment introduces a new provision to Article 22 of the Police Act, empowering the Commissioner of Police to enlist the services of specialized foreign investigative agents to assist in serious or complex criminal investigations. These agents will operate under the direction and control of the Commissioner of Police or any officer designated by him, but will not have the authority to make arrests.
Their role will be limited to providing technical and specialized investigative assistance in specific cases that require advanced expertise. Only individuals who have previously worked in foreign law enforcement agencies and demonstrated specialized knowledge in the relevant field of investigation will be eligible for these positions.
Furthermore, the bill addresses the increasing complexity of modern crimes, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, money laundering, cybercrime, and other transnational offenses that necessitate sophisticated investigative methods and international cooperation.
The Prime Minister emphasized that this bill aims to enable the police to access specialized skills in areas such as digital forensics, communication technologies, and financial analysis, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and depth of criminal investigations. It also allows the Commissioner of Police to seek external assistance when local capabilities fall short in handling highly technical or unresolved cases.
According to Dr. Navin Ramgoolam, this legislative reform is part of a broader government effort to modernize police services in Mauritius and strengthen the rule of law. It complements recent amendments to the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) Act 2023, which improved coordination among authorities responsible for investigations and prosecutions and addressed structural gaps that previously hindered timely justice administration. Together, these reforms aim to ensure greater consistency, professionalism, and accountability within law enforcement institutions.
