Mauritius has lifted the overnight curfew imposed last week after violent protests, the government announced Monday.
The office of Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam said conditions had improved and the curfew would not be extended. The latest curfew ended at 4:30 a.m. Monday, October 19, and was not renewed. Roads have reopened, all schools are operating normally and daily life has returned to normal.
The protests on the Indian Ocean island began last week over water shortages and the rising cost of living. Violence erupted after a police officer shot and seriously wounded a woman on Saturday.
At least 188 people have been arrested in the days since on charges including looting, arson, vandalism at police stations and possession of explosives. The officer who shot the woman in the neck has been detained and brought before a court, according to the authorities.
Mauritius is often held up as a model of stability and prosperity in Africa. Its most recent major unrest was in 1999, when a popular singer died in police custody.
The turmoil prompted the British government to update its travel advice, urging visitors to the popular tourist destination to exercise caution. The UK government said a temporary evening and overnight curfew covering most of the main island ran from October 12 to October 18 and ended at 4:30 a.m. Monday, October 19. Travelers are advised to stay away from protests and large gatherings and to follow the guidance of local authorities.
