Pravind Jugnauth, the former Prime Minister of Mauritius, has been granted bail after his dramatic arrest on Saturday on charges of money laundering.
Jugnauth, who was detained along with three others, faced accusations after the Financial Crimes Commission raided multiple locations, including his residence, and seized suitcases filled with cash and luxury watches.
During the raids, authorities confiscated about $2.4 million in various currencies, including US dollars, euros, and UAE dirhams, along with seven luxury watches, including five high-end Cartier timepieces.
While Jugnauth denies the charges, his arrest marks a significant development, coming just 100 days after his defeat in the national elections.
His successor, Navin Ramgoolam, has pledged to eliminate corruption, and the swift action by the Financial Crimes Commission has taken many by surprise.
On Monday, Jugnauth’s supporters gathered outside the court, chanting his name in solidarity, while others in the capital celebrated the turn of events with firecrackers.
Jugnauth’s wife, Kobita, was questioned by investigators but released without facing charges. Jugnauth spent the night in detention before being granted bail on Sunday, set at $32,000.
Two of his co-accused, including a deputy mayor and two prominent business people, remain in custody as their bail applications are pending.
As part of his bail conditions, Jugnauth must stay at a fixed address and refrain from contacting witnesses.
Reported by BBC News Africa.
