Mauritius Curfew: 15 Regions Under Overnight Ban Tuesday to Wednesday

Mauritius has imposed a curfew across 15 regions from 8:30pm on Tuesday evening until 6:00am on Wednesday morning, authorities have announced, as the government moves to restore order following days of civil unrest across the island.

The curfew, declared under emergency powers, prohibits residents in the designated areas from being outdoors or in public spaces during those hours. Anyone found outside without an authorised reason risks arrest and prosecution under Mauritian law.

The 15 regions covered by the curfew span a significant portion of the island, reflecting the spread of disturbances beyond the capital, Port Louis, where unrest first flared. Authorities have not published a full breakdown of exemptions in the initial announcement, but essential workers, medical personnel, and those responding to emergencies are typically permitted to move under such orders.

The move follows several nights of unrest that prompted warnings from civil society figures, opposition politicians, and community leaders. Civic activist Bruneau Laurette publicly urged Mauritians to remain at home, while former minister Nando Bodha issued a formal plea for calm. Five individuals have already been provisionally charged with rioting at the Port Louis District Court.

The unrest has also disrupted daily life significantly. Streets in Port Louis fell unusually quiet in recent days, and a range of public activities have been curtailed. Religious organisations, including Hindu temples conducting Durga Puja observances, were asked to conclude prayers by 8pm on Tuesday. Crèches across the country have been ordered to remain closed on Wednesday, and schools will not open — though SC (School Certificate) and HSC (Higher School Certificate) national examinations are confirmed to proceed as scheduled for Wednesday 14 October, as are Pearson Edexcel exams.

The SC and HSC exams are Mauritius's equivalent of O-Level and A-Level qualifications, sat by students at the end of secondary school. Their continuation amid the unrest underlines the government's effort to limit disruption to critical national processes even as public order measures tighten.

What this means: If you live in or are travelling through one of the 15 affected regions, you must be indoors by 8:30pm Tuesday and may not venture out until 6:00am Wednesday. Violating a curfew order in Mauritius carries criminal penalties. Residents are advised to confirm with local authorities or official government channels whether their specific area is included and what exemptions apply to their circumstances.

Source: Le Defi Media