Drug Trafficking: The 2025 Report in Numbers

The year 2025 saw significant drug seizures in Mauritius. Large quantities of cannabis, cocaine, heroin, and synthetic drugs, valued from tens to hundreds of millions of rupees, were intercepted at the airport, port, and at sea.

The Anti-Drug Brigade has released its report. Between December 2024 and July 2025 alone, over 691 kg of drugs were seized at the port and airport, with a total estimated value of Rs 1.1 billion.

As the government aims to strengthen the fight against drug trafficking through the National Agency for Drug Control (NADC), another concerning phenomenon has emerged: drug use while driving.

So far, four drivers involved in fatal accidents tested positive for drugs, having consumed substances before getting behind the wheel. Additionally, 30 other drivers involved in non-fatal accidents were also found to be under the influence.

The seizures this year illustrate the extent of drug trafficking in Mauritius. On May 29, a joint operation between the Customs Anti-Narcotics Section and the ADSU intercepted over 210 kg of cannabis hidden in the luggage of eight foreign passengers, including a 7-year-old child, at the airport. The drugs were valued at over Rs 250 million.

On February 25, the Customs Department seized 55 kg of cannabis, estimated at Rs 66 million, after intercepting two Thai nationals coming from Dubai.

On March 11, nearly 2.6 kg of suspicious synthetic drugs were discovered during an air cargo inspection, with an estimated market value of Rs 39 million.

A record seizure occurred on November 9: 15 packages containing over 433 kg of cocaine were found in the engine room of the bulk carrier Alpha Bravery. The Greek-flagged ship was in Mauritian waters when its captain alerted the authorities. The cargo is estimated to be worth Rs 6.4 billion.

Beyond the seizures, the social consequences of drug use remain concerning. Authorities and observers report an increase in consumption among youth, including in schools.

KL/ED