The key facts

  • The curfew was lifted on Monday, 19 October; the last one was in effect until 4:30 a.m. local time.
  • At least 188 people were arrested — on charges including looting, arson, damage to police stations and possession of explosives.
  • The protests began over water shortages and rising prices; the violence was triggered by a police officer who wounded a woman.

Curfew lifted

Mauritius on Monday lifted the night curfew imposed last week after a rare wave of violent demonstrations that swept the island nation. The office of Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam said the decision was taken due to the improved situation. “The last curfew ended at 4:30 a.m. (00:30 GMT) on Monday 19 October, and it was not extended,” the prime minister’s office said.

Scale of the unrest

The riots were the most serious in nearly three decades. According to reports, at least 188 people were arrested in the following days on charges including looting, arson, damage to police stations and possession of explosives.

Causes of the protests

The protests began over water shortages and the rising cost of living, but violence erupted after a police officer fired and seriously wounded a woman. The officer was later detained and brought before a court.

Return to normal life

Tour operator Mauritius Tours said in a separate statement: “The roads are open, all schools have resumed work, classes are proceeding as usual, and everyday life has returned to normal.”