Port-Louis Night Market: The Mobile Command Center at the Heart of Security on Desforges Street

Title: Port-Louis Night Market: The Mobile Command Center at the Heart of Security on Desforges Street

Content: Officially launched on Saturday, December 13, the Night Market on Desforges Street is under close police surveillance. During this festive season, ensuring safety is a central concern for the event, marked by a strong deployment of law enforcement to maintain peace for the public and merchants. Each evening, nearly forty police officers, both in uniform and plainclothes, are deployed from the Central Barracks to secure the area and prevent any incidents.

The Mobile Command Center, located in the heart of the Night Market, attracts significant attention. This visible and strategic command post allows for quick coordination of interventions and enhances on-site security. Its presence reassures both merchants and visitors while deterring theft and ensuring smooth operations in this busy area. The setup also piques the curiosity of passersby, who are interested in its role and functioning.

Police Superintendent (SP) Badal, one of the Metro North police officials, explained the importance of this Mobile Command Center, which facilitates rapid and effective coordination of police interventions. According to him, this forward post boosts real-time response capabilities and aids in managing situations promptly. "We are a community police force, and our role is to be present for any necessary interventions,” stated SP Badal. He also mentioned that the police are working to educate the public about precautions to take in such locations. “In the evening, we need to be present to avoid all risks, like theft or disturbances,” he added.

The senior officer praised the synergy between the police, merchants, and the public, emphasizing that this collaboration is essential to maintaining a calm and secure environment: "Public-police cooperation here is a significant factor that helps us keep everything in order." He recalled that at the start of the Night Market, a few disputes were reported among merchants, but the police intervened promptly. "The situation is now under control, and everything is proceeding in an orderly and disciplined manner," he assured.

Throughout the evening, police conduct regular patrols and stay in contact with street vendors, encouraging vigilance against theft attempts or other malicious acts. "Is everything going smoothly? If anything happens, let us know. The Mobile Command Post is here, and you can inform the police about anything," said a WPC to the merchants during her foot patrol.

"Come visit for a stroll this year!"

Merchants welcome the strong police presence, feeling reassured for themselves and the visitors. They invite the Mauritian public to come and visit the Night Market safely. "You can come as a family; mothers and children, come take a stroll this year," invites Abdel, a merchant.

The Night Market will remain open until January 5. The Central Barracks assure that all necessary precautions have been taken so that Mauritians can enjoy this street shopping space safely.