Newly appointed Chairperson of Independent Police Complaints Commission sworn-in

Mr Satya Veyash Faugoo is the newly appointed Chairperson of the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC). He took and subscribed the Oath of Office before the President of the Republic of Mauritius, Mr Dharam Gokhool, today at the State House, Le Réduit.

In a statement, Mr Faugoo highlighted that his main priorities as Chairperson of the IPCC are to strengthen public confidence in the police, enhance relations between the police force and the public and improve the timeliness of investigations.

He underscored the importance of the IPCC as an independent oversight institution in a democratic society governed by the rule of law and recalled the Commission’s mandate to investigate complaints made by members of the public concerning police officers and allegations of police misconduct.

The Chairperson observed that the IPCC’s work is particularly significant in today's environment, where social media has heightened public scrutiny and expectations of accountability. He further noted that despite a police force comprising approximately 12,500 officers, there have been no major changes over the past four decades in the way it operates or in its relationship with the public.

Citing available studies, he indicated that nearly half of the population lacks confidence in the police force. He thus acknowledged the need to foster greater mutual respect between police officers and members of the public.

According to Mr Faugoo, the IPCC has received nearly 6,000 complaints since its establishment, including around 1,500 cases relating to alleged police brutality, abuse of authority and other forms of misconduct. On average, the Commission receives approximately 750 complaints annually, equivalent to around three complaints daily, he added.

He underpinned the need to reduce the time taken by the IPCC to complete investigations and to examine the factors contributing to delays in police investigations, with a view to improving efficiency and ensuring timely resolution of complaints.

Mr Satya Veyash Faugoo is a Barrister-at-Law with nearly four decades of experience in law, public administration and governance. Called to the Bar in England, Wales and Mauritius in 1987, he has served as Crown Counsel, Magistrate, Member of Parliament, Attorney General, and Minister responsible for portfolios including Health, Labour, Housing, Agriculture and Fisheries. He thus brings extensive expertise in public policy, governance and legal affairs.

22 July 2026

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