15 Foreign Nationals Arrested for Illegal Stay in Mauritius
A special police unit arrested 15 people from India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan during an operation on 13 November 2026.
Fifteen foreign nationals were arrested on Friday 13 November 2026 by the Special Team Metro North, a dedicated police unit operating in the northern metropolitan region of Mauritius, as part of an operation targeting illegal residency on the island.
The individuals detained hold Indian, Nepalese, Bangladeshi and Pakistani nationalities. Beyond their nationalities and the date of the operation, authorities have not yet released further details about where exactly the arrests took place or how long the individuals had been in the country.
An investigation is currently underway, according to information released by the unit.
In Mauritius, foreign nationals are required to hold a valid visa or residence permit to remain on the island legally. Work permit holders, students and other categories of residents must keep their documentation current and in line with the terms set by the Passport and Immigration Office, which falls under the Prime Minister's Office. Overstaying a visa or entering the country without authorisation is a criminal offence under Mauritian immigration law and can result in detention, prosecution and deportation.
Mauritius has seen a steady increase in the number of foreign workers arriving on the island over the past decade, particularly from South and Southeast Asia, to fill roles in sectors such as construction, manufacturing and domestic work. While many arrive through legal channels, enforcement operations like this one reflect the authorities' efforts to crack down on those who remain in the country beyond their permitted stay or without the proper documentation.
The Special Team Metro North is one of several specialised police units in Mauritius tasked with targeted enforcement operations across different geographic zones. Such operations are carried out periodically and can involve coordination with immigration authorities.
The outcome of the investigation, including whether formal charges will be laid or whether deportation proceedings will follow, has not yet been confirmed by police.
Source: ION News
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to foreign nationals caught staying illegally in Mauritius?β
Foreign nationals found to be in Mauritius without valid documentation can be detained, prosecuted under immigration law and deported. The Passport and Immigration Office, which operates under the Prime Minister's Office, oversees enforcement alongside the Mauritius Police Force.
Which unit made the arrests and where does it operate?β
The arrests were carried out by the Special Team Metro North, a specialised Mauritius Police Force unit focused on enforcement operations in the northern metropolitan area of the island.
Do foreign workers in Mauritius need a permit to stay legally?β
Yes. All foreign nationals in Mauritius must hold a valid visa, work permit or residence permit for the duration of their stay. Permits are issued and monitored by the Passport and Immigration Office and the Economic Development Board, depending on the purpose of the stay.
From Our Network
Find Property in Mauritius
Search Listings β
π§ Breaking alerts straight to your inbox