Mauritius: Worst Unrest Since 1999 Closes Schools and Disrupts Metro Express

October 13, 2026 — Mauritius has been hit by its worst unrest since 1999 after a police officer shot a young woman, with roads blocked, tyres burned and a police station set on fire. Schools are closed today and the Metro Express light rail is disrupted. Police say the situation is now under control.

What happened

The trigger: Élodie Thomas, 27, was shot and wounded by police on the night of Friday, October 9, while travelling home from work south of Port Louis. Health officials say she had successful surgery and is recovering. A police sergeant has been provisionally charged and is held until October 19.
Background: Protests had already started around October 7 over fuel prices and a severe drought that has emptied reservoirs, bringing water restrictions in several areas.
Night of October 12–13: Protesters blocked roads and burned tyres in several places, including Abercrombie (Port Louis), Sainte-Croix, Bambous, Petite-Rivière, Barkly and Grand-Gaube. A police station in Rose Hill, the island’s second-largest town, was set on fire on October 12. Several people were arrested and one officer was lightly injured.
Tuesday, October 13: All schools and crèches are closed and exams are postponed; a reopening date is TBA. The Metro Express is heavily disrupted pending a track inspection. The business lobby, Business Mauritius, urged companies to let staff work from home. Police and the prime minister’s office say the situation has returned to normal and roads are passable.
US Embassy: The US Embassy in Port Louis posted a security alert dated October 13. Its page could not be opened for this report, so its contents are not confirmed here.
Airport: No reports found of disruption at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport.

What it means for airline travelers

If you are flying to or from Mauritius this week, allow extra time for the road trip to and from the airport in case of fresh roadblocks, especially after dark.
Avoid protests and areas where tyres are burning, and follow local news and your hotel’s advice.
Do not count on the Metro Express until service is restored; plan a taxi or hotel transfer instead.
Read the US Embassy’s alert in full and register with STEP (US) or Registration of Canadians Abroad so you receive updates.
Water restrictions are in force in parts of the island; check with your hotel.