The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel advice for Mauritius today, Tuesday, October 13, warning visitors of “localised demonstrations and community unrest” after a police shooting incident.
The FCDO said: “Localised demonstrations and community unrest have occurred in parts of Mauritius following a police shooting incident on October 9 2026. Further protests may occur at short notice and could result in road closures, transport disruptions and interruptions to public services.”
Travelers are advised to “stay away from demonstrations and large public gatherings, monitor local media, follow the instructions of local authorities and exercise caution if travelling in affected areas.”
Impact on UK tourists
Around 150,000 UK tourists travel to the island every year. The FCDO advises anyone needing assistance to report incidents to the Mauritius tourist police by calling 999.
Emergency services in Mauritius can be reached at: ambulance 999 or 114, fire 999 or 115, police 999 or 112, and tourist police 999 or 112.
The Foreign Office also stresses: “Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.”
Schools closed and investigation under way
Mauritius closed schools in some parts of the country on Tuesday, October 13, following a night of unrest that began when a police officer allegedly shot a young woman. An investigation is under way.
Local media report that a police sergeant has been provisionally charged over the shooting of Élodie Thomas, 27, who has since had successful surgery to remove the bullet. The incident led to protests, with police dispatched as people burned tyres and blocked roads in parts of the country on Monday night.
Entry requirements for Mauritius
The Indian Ocean island nation off Africa’s east coast attracts around 1.3 million visitors each year. To enter the country, passports must be valid for the duration of the stay and have one blank page.
The Foreign Office advises travellers to check with their travel provider that their passport and other documents meet entry requirements, and to renew passports if necessary. Tourists may be refused entry if they lack a valid travel document or travel on a passport reported lost or stolen.
