Mauritius National Coast Guard officers arrested in cannabis smuggling probe

Two officers from the Mauritius National Coast Guard (NCG) have been arrested and charged with conspiracy to import dangerous drugs. The arrests are part of a major investigation into the alleged importation of approximately 1.5 tonnes of cannabis from Thailand to Mauritius via the yacht Dreamer.

Investigators suspect the officers facilitated the smuggling operation by providing sensitive information to the yacht's crew. Leaked WhatsApp messages reportedly show an NCG member providing the Thai captain with instructions on how to handle interrogations and sharing confidential documents regarding other vessels.

In total, 15 suspects have been detained, including nine Thai nationals and four Mauritians. The Thai suspects, aged 21 to 50, remain in police custody following their appearance in the Port-Louis court. Defense lawyers have noted the absence of a sworn interpreter, which may impact the ongoing investigation and the constitutional right to a fair trial.