Curepipe Court - Sergeant Etwar: "Ajay Gunness Refused the Breathalyzer Test"

Ajay Gunness, the Minister of National Infrastructure, facing charges for driving under the influence of alcohol, has refused to submit to a breathalyzer test, provide blood or urine samples, and comply with police orders. He appeared before the Curepipe court on Monday, May 4, 2026, presided over by Magistrate Bibi Azna Bholah, and has pleaded not guilty since his indictment.

The prosecution, represented by Me Pareemala Devi Mauree, Acting Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, presented a certificate from the National Land Transport Authority (NLTA) during the hearing but later requested its withdrawal due to a noted registration error. Ajay Gunness was represented by Me Sid Groodoyal.

Chief Inspector Bhunjun first read the defendant's statement, which contests the facts and claims he was only asked for his driving license.

Called to the stand, Sergeant Etwar explained that he intercepted the vehicle in Floréal on January 9, 2023. He reported smelling alcohol and requested a breathalyzer test, which the defendant allegedly refused before leaving the scene.

The case has been postponed to June 25, 2026.