Jugnauth Criticises Handling of Phone-Tapping Equipment Inquiry
Former PM Pravind Jugnauth says the investigation into alleged phone-tapping equipment is being conducted improperly, raising procedural concerns.
Former Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the way investigators are handling the inquiry into phone-tapping equipment allegedly linked to his previous administration.
Jugnauth, who led the country from 2017 until his electoral defeat in November 2024, voiced his concerns about what he described as the improper manner in which the investigation is being conducted. He did not specify the exact nature of his objections, but his comments signal a growing tension between the former ruling party and current law enforcement authorities.
The case centres on surveillance equipment, reportedly capable of intercepting telephone communications, that came to light following the change of government. The existence and use of such equipment has raised serious questions about potential abuses of state power during the previous administration's time in office.
The inquiry is being handled by the Central Criminal Investigation Department, known in Mauritius as the CCID. This is the specialist investigative arm of the Mauritius Police Force responsible for serious and complex criminal matters. Jugnauth was previously summoned and questioned by the CCID in connection with this case.
By speaking out against the conduct of the investigation, Jugnauth appears to be contesting either the legal procedures being followed, the manner in which he and others are being interviewed, or the overall framing of the inquiry. His Militant Socialist Movement party, the MSM, lost the November 2024 general election and has since faced multiple investigations touching on its years in power.
The phone-tapping scandal has become one of the most politically sensitive cases in Mauritius since the new government of Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam took office. Allegations that the previous administration used surveillance tools against political opponents, journalists or other individuals have fuelled public debate about civil liberties and the rule of law on the island.
What this means: If the investigation confirms that phone-tapping equipment was deployed unlawfully, it could result in criminal charges against senior figures from the former government. For ordinary Mauritians, the case raises broader questions about how much surveillance the state has been carrying out and whether adequate legal safeguards exist to protect private communications. The outcome could also shape future legislation around intelligence gathering and oversight in Mauritius.
Source: Le Defi Media
Read more
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the phone-tapping equipment case in Mauritius?β
The case involves surveillance equipment allegedly capable of intercepting telephone communications that came to light after the November 2024 general election. The Central Criminal Investigation Department (CCID) of the Mauritius Police Force is investigating whether the equipment was used unlawfully during the previous administration led by Pravind Jugnauth and his Militant Socialist Movement (MSM) party.
What is the CCID in Mauritius?β
The CCID, or Central Criminal Investigation Department, is the specialist unit within the Mauritius Police Force that handles serious and complex criminal investigations. It has been leading several high-profile probes since the new Ramgoolam government took office in November 2024, including the phone-tapping equipment inquiry.
Has Pravind Jugnauth been charged in the phone-tapping case?β
As of the latest reports, Pravind Jugnauth has been summoned and questioned by the CCID but has not been charged. He has publicly criticised the manner in which the investigation is being conducted.
From Our Network
Find Property in Mauritius
Search Listings β
π§ Breaking alerts straight to your inbox