Fight Against Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering: Rs 9.9 Billion in Assets Seized in 2025
The net is tightening around drug trafficking networks in Mauritius. During a joint workshop between the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) and the National Agency for Drug Control (NADC) held Tuesday morning at the FCC headquarters in Réduit Triangle, the FCC's Director General, Titrudeo Dawoodarry, revealed figures illustrating an unprecedented financial offensive. For the year 2025, the total value of assets subject to attachment orders (temporary criminal and civil seizures) amounts to approximately Rs 9.9 billion. This event, focused on education and whistleblowing, was attended by the President of the Republic, Dharam Gokhool.
According to Titrudeo Dawoodarry, victory against the drug menace can only be achieved by dismantling the financial foundations that support it. "To combat drug trafficking, we must attack not only the supply but also the financial systems that sustain it," he stated.
The effectiveness of this strategy is evident in immediate results. In addition to the Rs 9.9 billion in frozen assets, seized assets already amount to Rs 90 million. The acceleration of operations is notable: in just the last eight days, the FCC has conducted ten searches, made nine arrests, and seized assets worth over Rs 100 million. Currently, 109 cases are ongoing in the courts, of which 17 directly relate to drug offenses.
While displaying total firmness on the repressive front, the FCC director emphasized that repression alone is insufficient. Prevention and education are essential second pillars of this national struggle:
- A National Reach: The combined efforts of the FCC and NADC have already raised awareness among approximately 63,000 people across the country.
- Expanded Target: The program targets primary and secondary school students, university students, as well as public and private organizations.
- Collective Effort: A strong call was made to religious leaders, educators, social workers, and the media to prevent Mauritian society from becoming hostages to traffickers.
Titrudeo Dawoodarry compared the eradication of drug trafficking to a "second independence" for Mauritius.
Speaking at the event, NADC Chief Executive Officer Fayzal Sulliman emphasized the importance of working closely with the FCC. "Drug trafficking generates enormous profits and relies on well-structured financial networks. We must weaken this foundation," he stressed, noting that synthetic drugs are becoming increasingly accessible and that it is time to act collectively.
President Dharam Gokhool concluded by reminding everyone that this scourge destroys lives and compromises the country’s international credibility. "This phenomenon transcends borders, threatens the integrity of institutions, and destroys lives," he asserted.
Protection and Support
Particular emphasis was placed on the protection of whistleblowers. This secure mechanism now allows for timely and effective reporting of crimes without fear of retaliation. A hotline has been established to facilitate reporting. Additionally, a support line now offers assistance to distressed families and drug users, ensuring essential human support in this national battle.