Mauritius has lifted a nighttime curfew imposed following days of violent protests over water shortages and rising living costs, as authorities reported an improvement in security across the island nation.
Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam’s office confirmed on Monday that restrictions introduced last week had ended, following some of the country’s worst unrest in nearly three decades.
“The last curfew ended at 4:30 am on Monday 19 October, and it has not been extended,” the prime minister’s office said in a statement.
At least 188 people were arrested during the unrest on allegations including looting, arson, vandalism of police stations and possession of explosives.
The demonstrations initially erupted over persistent water shortages and mounting living costs but escalated into violence after a police officer shot and seriously wounded a woman.
The officer was subsequently arrested and brought before a court.
Authorities said security conditions had improved sufficiently to allow restrictions to be removed, while businesses, schools and transport services resumed normal operations.
Tourism operator Mauritius Tours said the country was returning to normal following the disturbances.
“Roads are open, all schools have reopened with classes running as usual, and daily life is back on track,” the company said.
The unrest marked a rare episode of widespread violence in Mauritius, a popular Indian Ocean tourist destination generally known for its political stability.
