Mauritius has extended an overnight curfew for a second consecutive night as authorities struggle to contain widespread unrest triggered by water shortages, rising living costs and a police shooting.
The government announced the extension on Wednesday after renewed tensions in several areas of the Indian Ocean island nation, which has experienced some of its worst civil unrest in nearly three decades.
Police had lifted an initial curfew on Wednesday morning, saying the situation was under control following several arrests. However, authorities later reinstated restrictions amid continuing concerns over public security.
A spokesperson for Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam’s office confirmed that schools would remain closed for the rest of the week, with exceptions for students sitting international examinations.
The protests began last week over persistent water shortages and the rising cost of living before escalating after police shot and wounded a woman, sparking further public anger.
In a televised national address on Tuesday, Ramgoolam condemned the violence as unacceptable and announced emergency restrictions aimed at restoring order.
Following Wednesday’s announcement, tourism operators advised visitors to remain at their accommodation and avoid unnecessary travel during curfew hours, which run from 8:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. Thursday.
The unrest has raised concerns about public safety and disruption to tourism, a major contributor to the island nation’s economy.
