Mauritius Curfew 8:30pm to 6am: Police SP Dowlut Explains the Rules
Superintendent Dowlut outlines who is exempt, what is prohibited, and how police will enforce the overnight curfew across Mauritius.
Mauritius is under a curfew running from 8:30pm to 6:00am, and Superintendent of Police (SP) Dowlut has stepped forward to explain what the measure means in practice β who must stay home, who is allowed to move, and what consequences those who break the order face.
The curfew was ordered by Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam in response to civil unrest, and applies across 15 designated regions of the island. During the restricted hours, residents are required to remain indoors. Moving through public spaces without a valid reason is prohibited.
SP Dowlut clarified that certain categories of people are permitted to travel during curfew hours. These include medical and emergency personnel, workers in essential services, and individuals who can demonstrate a legitimate urgent need. Anyone moving during the curfew is expected to carry proof of their exemption and may be stopped and questioned by police at checkpoints.
The Mauritius Police Force is responsible for enforcing the order on the ground. Patrols will be deployed across affected areas throughout the night. SP Dowlut urged the public to cooperate fully and to avoid unnecessary movement, stressing that the measure is temporary and aimed at restoring calm.
Breaking the curfew is a serious offence under Mauritian law. Those caught violating the order without a valid exemption can face significant legal penalties, including the possibility of imprisonment. Police have made clear they will not treat breaches lightly.
For residents near Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (SSR) International Airport in Plaisance, the airport remains operational. Travellers with flights are advised to arrive at least three hours before departure to account for curfew checkpoints and potential delays.
Public transport, including buses, will resume at 6:00am on Wednesday once the curfew lifts. The Metro Express, the light rail service connecting Port Louis to Curepipe, has suspended operations and is not expected to restart for approximately one week.
Essential services continue to function. The Central Water Authority (CWA) has confirmed water supply will be maintained throughout the curfew period. Bread deliveries are also set to resume from 6:00am Wednesday morning.
Students sitting SC (School Certificate) and HSC (Higher School Certificate) examinations β the Mauritian equivalents of O-levels and A-levels β have been granted special dispensation allowing late arrival on Wednesday.
What this means: If you are in Mauritius tonight, you must be indoors between 8:30pm and 6:00am unless you qualify for an exemption. Keep identification and any relevant work documents with you if you have a legitimate reason to travel. Do not attempt to move through restricted areas without cause β the penalties are severe and police are actively patrolling.
Source: Le Defi Media
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the curfew hours in Mauritius and where does it apply?β
The curfew runs from 8:30pm to 6:00am and applies across 15 designated regions of Mauritius, as ordered by Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam in response to civil unrest.
Who is exempt from the Mauritius curfew?β
Exemptions apply to medical and emergency personnel, essential services workers, and those with a demonstrable urgent need. Anyone travelling during curfew hours should carry proof of their exemption as police are operating checkpoints.
What happens if you break the curfew in Mauritius?β
Violating the curfew without a valid exemption is a criminal offence under Mauritian law and can result in imprisonment of up to five years. Police are actively patrolling and enforcing the order.
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