Fake Policeman Scams Worker at Busy Mauritius Bus Terminal
A 45-year-old laboureur was conned out of Rs 750 by a man posing as a police officer at the Victoria Urban Terminal on 5 November 2026.
A 45-year-old labourer lost Rs 750 to a scammer impersonating a police officer at one of Mauritius's busiest transport hubs on Thursday 5 November 2026.
The incident took place at the Victoria Urban Terminal in Rose Hill, a major bus interchange used daily by thousands of commuters travelling across the island. The victim was waiting for a bus when a man in plain clothes approached him and presented what appeared to be an official police identification card bearing the logo of the Mauritius Police Force.
The impersonator accused the man of smoking in a public place, an offence that does carry real fines under Mauritian law, and threatened him with a penalty of Rs 5,000. He then offered to settle the matter quietly for Rs 750, framing it as a favour to avoid formal proceedings.
Caught off guard and believing he was dealing with a genuine officer, the labourer handed over the money. It was only afterwards that he realised he had been deceived. An investigation was opened the same day.
This type of scam, known as impersonation fraud, is not unique to Mauritius, but the use of a convincing fake police badge makes it particularly effective. Scammers deliberately target public spaces with high foot traffic and choose victims who may feel intimidated by an apparent authority figure.
What this means: Members of the public should be aware that real police officers in Mauritius operating in plain clothes do carry identification, but citizens have the right to verify that identity. If you are approached by someone claiming to be a police officer and asking for money, do not pay on the spot. You can ask to be taken to the nearest police station to resolve the matter formally. No legitimate officer will request an informal cash settlement. If in doubt, call the police emergency line on 999 or contact the nearest police station directly.
The Mauritius Police Force has not yet issued a public statement about this specific incident, but investigations are under way. Anyone with information about the suspect is encouraged to come forward to assist police.
Source: ION News
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if someone claiming to be a police officer asks me for money in Mauritius?β
Do not pay. No legitimate Mauritius Police Force officer will ask for an informal cash payment on the spot. Ask to be taken to the nearest police station to resolve any alleged offence formally. You can also call the police emergency line on 999 to verify the situation.
Where is the Victoria Urban Terminal in Mauritius?β
The Victoria Urban Terminal is a major public bus interchange located in Rose Hill, in the west of Mauritius. It is one of the island's busiest transport hubs, connecting routes across the central and western regions of the country.
Is smoking in public really an offence in Mauritius?β
Yes. Mauritius has laws restricting smoking in designated public places, and fines can apply. However, any fine must be issued through an official process by an authorised officer. Payment should never be made directly to an individual in cash outside of a formal procedure.
From Our Network
Find Property in Mauritius
Search Listings β
π§ Breaking alerts straight to your inbox