Mauritian Police: Reforms, Drug Fight, and Modernization

The Police Commissioner, Rampersad Sooroojebally, presented "The Police Commissioner’s Insight – December 2025", a comprehensive overview of the actions and priorities of the Mauritius Police Force (MPF) over the past year. The report highlights internal reforms, strategic restructuring, key crime trends, and modernization projects.

The Commissioner places this publication in a context where the police face increasingly complex challenges and rising public expectations. He reaffirms the need for transparency, trust, and collaboration with the community, while commending the daily commitment of police officers.

Promotions

Among the major initiatives are measures taken to restore trust and morale within the ranks. The report emphasizes the implementation of promotional exercises based on seniority, the assignment of police officers within a 20 km radius of their homes, and the introduction of a new work system in April 2025 that reduces the workweek to 40 hours for rotating teams. These initiatives aim to improve working conditions, reduce commute times, and foster a better work-life balance.

The restructuring of the police is another key pillar of the document. Several units have been dismantled, including the Special Striking Team, the Special Intelligence Cell, and the Crime Intelligence Unit. The Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (Adsu) has been reorganized with a redistribution of personnel and a clarified operational framework. The report also announces the merging of the Divisional Supporting Unit (DSU) with the tourism police and the Emergency Response Service (ERS). Two Assistant Commissioners of Police lead the most critical divisions. The decentralization of Crime Prevention Units (CPU) and the deployment of police psychologists across all divisions complement this new structure.

Drug Policy

The fight against drugs is highlighted as a priority, with trends indicating the use of cannabis, synthetic cannabinoids, and heroin among addicts. The report mentions the emergence of more potent substances like nitazenes and fentanyl. Adsu also notes an increase in cannabis imports from Thailand and a rise in "go-fast" operations from Réunion and Madagascar. Maritime and aerial routes remain the primary channels for drug trafficking.

In terms of cybercrime, the report identifies various scams: fake online stores, romantic scams leading to cyber extortion, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, and cryptocurrency investment frauds. The public is encouraged to exercise caution, particularly on social media, and to report any suspicious activity to the Cybercrime Unit.

Road Safety

The document also addresses road safety. Key factors contributing to accidents include speeding, driving under the influence, disregard for traffic laws, and mobile phone use while driving. In response to increasing traffic density, law enforcement operations have been enhanced, while awareness campaigns target the most vulnerable groups. Rehabilitation sessions for disqualified drivers are also organized in collaboration with the Mauritius Institute of Training and Development.

Domestic violence and child protection issues are prominent themes. The report discusses the influence of economic difficulties, dependencies, marital conflicts, and social media-driven tensions. The family protection unit investigates cases involving sexually abused children, facilitates protective orders, and conducts prevention campaigns. Modules on gender-based violence have been integrated into the training of new police officers.

The report emphasizes the central role of the police in managing major events in 2025, including national celebrations, municipal and urban elections, and the African Maritime Forces Summit held in Mauritius with the participation of African and American delegations. Maintaining order during significant religious festivities has also required substantial resources.

Modernization

Two major modernization projects are announced. The National Policing Strategic Framework is being revamped to enhance community policing, a human rights-based approach, and the use of operational intelligence. Concurrently, the Police and Criminal Justice Bill, currently in consultation, aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework governing police powers, investigations, and individual rights.

Finally, the report mentions the establishment of a department dedicated to human resource development and the creation of a comprehensive training plan aligned with operational needs and the evolving security landscape.