Pravind Jugnauth Arrested in Money Laundering Probe Amid Chagos Deal Controversy
Pravind Jugnauth, former prime minister of Mauritius, has been arrested in connection with a money laundering investigation linked to the Chagos Islands deal. Following his appearance in court, he was granted bail despite objections from the Mauritius Financial Crimes Commission (FCC). The allegations center around claims of holding significant amounts of cash, raising concerns about the implications of the planned handover agreement.
Pravind Jugnauth, the former prime minister of Mauritius and key figure behind the contentious Chagos deal, has appeared in court following his arrest in a money laundering investigation. A video captured Mr. Jugnauth being escorted by plain-clothes officers into a courthouse, where he was later granted bail after the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence that he posed a risk to witnesses or evidence.
The case follows the Mauritius Financial Crimes Commission’s (FCC) interrogation of Mr. Jugnauth, after authorities conducted raids that uncovered substantial amounts of cash and luxury items in the homes of his associates. Mr. Jugnauth’s release from detention faces objection from the FCC, while his lawyer Raouf Gulbul emphasizes the absence of any incriminating evidence and firmly denies the allegations against his client.
The investigation reportedly centers on a claim involving 120 million Mauritian rupees, with accusations that Mr. Jugnauth had requested an associate to hold money on his behalf. Both the associate and a deputy mayor are under arrest, yet investigations reveal weak corroborating evidence for the allegations, according to Mr. Gulbul.
The fallout from Mr. Jugnauth’s arrest threatens the recently negotiated Chagos Islands handover agreement, which aims to transfer control of the British Indian Ocean Territory to Mauritius while maintaining access to Diego Garcia. Critics, including members of the Conservative party, voiced concerns that the arrangement could result in misappropriation of public funds amid rising scrutiny over the deal.
Former Prime Minister Jugnauth, whose political lineage has deep roots in Mauritius, faced electoral defeat shortly after the Chagos agreement was established. His arrest has caused alarm over the implications that may arise regarding the planned Chagos Islands handover, previously deemed important for UK national security. As the situation unfolds, calls arise for transparency regarding the negotiations and their potential ramifications for both British and Mauritian citizens.
In conclusion, the arrest of Pravind Jugnauth has heightened scrutiny surrounding the Chagos Islands handover deal. As investigations into money laundering allegations continue, concerns over the integrity of financial dealings become paramount. The case underscores the potential complications that could emerge from this agreement, impacting both national security interests and the economic implications for taxpayers.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
