Is Mauritius safe ?

Of course, it is. Most tourists who come to Mauritius would also say that our island is a safe place.

Yet that is not the way people feel. What about the recent murder in the north of the island, the series of larcenies and the attacks on tourists? Don’t they contradict what you are saying?

I don’t think so. Unfortunately, criminality exists everywhere in the world, even in the most developed countries. The police is sparing no efforts to control this situation. Since I have taken over the office of the Commissioner of Police, I have given instructions that more police patrols should be carried out throughout the island night and day on a frequent basis. I could say that I am more or less satisfied with the results. The crime detection rate, which was at 20%, has reached 70%. My aim is to reach a crime detection rate of 85%. I believe that this target could be achieved with some additional efforts by the members of the Criminal Investigation Division.

What precautions should people take?

I believe that the goal of a crime-free island can only be reached if the public and the police work in partnership. Everyone should take basic safety precautions in order to avoid any nasty surprises. The instructions are the same all over the world. Never venture into risky areas, lock your doors and windows when you go to bed or leave the house. These are simple precautions that people can take to protect themselves. The police is not omnipresent. It cannot protect everyone, which is why we ask people to be more responsible.

Are you satisfied with the performance of the police in the field?

I’m conscious that there is a lack of manpower, I am however satisfi ed that they are doing their best. The figures speak for themselves regarding the cases of crime detection. The aim is to detect any major crime within 48 hours after it has been committed.

The results of the promotion exams for the grade of sergeant have not been made public. And those who have passed the exams for the grade of inspector have not been promoted yet. Are you aware that this is a cause of frustration in the police force?

Yes and I fully understand this feeling. As a disciplinary force they are working for the good of the country. I have also reassured those police offi cers that everything is being done to ensure that the promotion exercise is carried out as soon as possible. There’s a chance that the results will be published before the celebration of the anniversary of our independence. I will also see to it that the Police Training School is available for conducting the promotion courses.

Vinesen Abel
(l’express Weekly – Friday 12 February)