The Mauritius Police Force (MPF)

The Mauritius Police Force (MPF) is the national law enforcement agency of Mauritius, responsible for maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and executing various security and military functions. The MPF operates under the Home Affairs division of the Prime Minister’s Office, with approximately 12,500 active-duty personnel under the command of the Commissioner of Police.

Core Responsibilities

The MPF is tasked with several critical functions aimed at preserving public order and ensuring the safety and security of the citizens. The primary duties of the police force include:

  1. Preserving Public Peace: Implementing measures to maintain peace and order in society.
  2. Preventing and Detecting Offences: Acting to deter criminal activities and investigating crimes to bring offenders to justice.
  3. Apprehending Suspects: Arresting individuals who have committed or are suspected of committing crimes.
  4. Regulating Public Gatherings: Managing processions and gatherings on public roads and in public places.
  5. Traffic Regulation: Controlling traffic and removing obstructions from public roads to ensure smooth flow.
  6. Maintaining Order in Public Places: Keeping order at public places, events, and assemblies for public amusement.
  7. Assisting in Law Implementation: Supporting the enforcement of health, quarantine, customs, and excise laws.
  8. Maintaining Order in Ports, Harbours, and Airports: Ensuring security and order in these critical areas.
  9. Executing Court Processes: Carrying out court orders and legal processes.
  10. Conducting Prosecutions: Swearing information and leading prosecutions in legal proceedings.
  11. Other Functions: Performing additional duties as assigned under various enactments.

Maritime Duties

The MPF extends its responsibilities to the maritime zones of Mauritius and, under the Piracy and Maritime Violence Act 2011, to the high seas. This includes measures to combat piracy and ensure maritime security.

Specialised Units

Police officers in Mauritius may also perform paramilitary duties and serve in specialised units of the police force, handling tasks that require advanced skills and training.

Public Access

To ensure public order, police officers on duty have the authority to access public places, gatherings, and assemblies while they are open to the public, enabling them to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

Summary

The MPF plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order in Mauritius. With a comprehensive set of duties ranging from crime prevention and traffic regulation to maritime security and public order maintenance, the MPF is central to ensuring the safety and security of the nation. Through their varied responsibilities, the MPF contributes to the stability and well-being of Mauritius, making it a safer place for its residents and visitors.