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Former Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been released on bail after his dramatic arrest on Saturday over money laundering allegations.
Jugnauth was detained alongside three others following raids at 10 locations, including his home, where authorities seized suitcases of cash and luxury watches. The anti-corruption agency reported confiscating around $2.4 million in multiple currencies and seven high-end timepieces, including five Cartiers.
The arrest comes just 100 days after Jugnauth suffered a landslide election defeat to Navin Ramgoolam, who had vowed to root out corruption. However, few expected authorities to act so swiftly—or to pursue such serious charges against the former leader.
While some Mauritians took to the streets of Port Louis to celebrate with fireworks, a small group of supporters gathered outside the court on Monday, chanting his name in solidarity.
Jugnauth’s wife, Kobita, was released after hours of questioning. Meanwhile, his co-accused—two prominent businesspeople and a deputy mayor—remain in custody pending their bail hearings.
A magistrate granted Jugnauth bail late on Sunday, setting it at $32,000 (£26,000). His bail conditions prohibit him from contacting witnesses or interfering in the case. He must also stay at a fixed address and notify the police of any relocation.
Jugnauth, who led Mauritius from 2017 to 2024, belongs to one of the island’s dominant political dynasties. During his tenure, he negotiated a historic deal with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the Chagos Islands. However, his successor has accused him of securing a bad agreement and has reopened negotiations.
