GIS – 12 November 2025: “The Police (Amendment) Bill 2025 aligns with the Government Programme 2025-2029, which commits to modernising our institutions, enhancing law enforcement capacity and reinforcing public trust.”
The Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, made this statement, yesterday, in the National Assembly at the second reading of the Police (Amendment) Bill 2025.
The Bill seeks to amend the Police Act of 1974 with the objective of strengthening the investigative capacity of the Mauritius Police Force, enhancing institutional integrity and reinforcing public confidence in the administration of justice.
The amendment introduces a new provision under Section 22 of the Police Act, empowering the Commissioner of Police to retain the services of foreign specialised investigative officers to assist in serious or complex criminal inquiries. These officers will operate under the direction and control of the Commissioner of Police, or any police officer designated by him but will not have powers of arrest.
Their role will be confined to providing specialised technical and investigative assistance in specific cases requiring advanced expertise. Eligibility to serve as such officers will be limited to individuals with prior service in foreign law enforcement authorities and demonstrated specialist knowledge in the relevant area of investigation.
Moreover, the Bill responds to the growing complexity of modern crimes, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, money laundering, cybercrime and other transnational offences that demand sophisticated investigative methods and international cooperation.
The Prime Minister pointed out that the Bill aims to provide the Police Force with access to expertise in fields such as digital forensics, communications technology and financial analysis, thereby improving the efficiency and depth of criminal investigations. It also enables the Commissioner of Police to seek external support when local capacity alone may not be sufficient to address highly technical or unresolved cases.
According to Dr Ramgoolam, this legislative reform forms part of the Government’s broader effort to modernise policing in Mauritius and strengthen the rule of law. It complements recent amendments brought to the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) Act 2023, which have enhanced coordination between investigative and prosecutorial authorities and closed structural gaps that previously impeded the timely delivery of justice. Together, these reforms seek to ensure greater coherence, professionalism, and accountability within law enforcement institutions.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov