Mauritius Synthetics is facing an unprecedented synthetic drug epidemic, with youth addiction rates reaching record highs. Authorities report that synthetic substances, including new psychoactive substances (NPS), are spreading rapidly across urban and rural areas. In response, the government has ramped up rehabilitation programs, intensified law enforcement, and sought regional collaboration to curb this crisis.
Between January and October 2025, Mauritian authorities made nearly 1,000 arrests linked to synthetic-drug offences, marking the island nation’s most serious drug crisis in decades. Public-health facilities report rising admissions of young patients with severe drug-related health issues. The widespread availability of low-cost, highly potent synthetics is driving both experimentation and dependency among adolescents and young adults.
Officials highlight that synthetic drugs are easily accessible, often sold through unregulated channels and online marketplaces. Many users experience extreme health risks, including cardiovascular problems, acute psychosis, and in some cases, fatal overdoses.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness has launched an expanded rehabilitation initiative, adding beds to existing facilities and opening new outpatient programs specifically for synthetic-drug users. Minister Kavita Devi stated:
“We are witnessing a public health emergency. Immediate intervention is required to prevent long-term harm to our youth. Rehabilitation, education, and law enforcement must act in unison.”
The government has also appealed to regional partners, including the Indian Ocean Commission, for support in tackling trafficking networks and sharing best practices for treatment programs.
Communities across Mauritius report growing concern over adolescent exposure to synthetic drugs. Parent associations and NGOs have documented increasing absenteeism in schools, family disruption, and rising street-level criminal activity linked to synthetic-drug abuse.
Counselor Jean-Pierre Rousset commented:
“Young people are highly vulnerable. Families are often unprepared to handle addiction at such an early stage. Awareness and community support are critical.”
Police have intensified crackdowns, targeting distribution hubs and online sellers. Advanced testing labs have been established to detect new synthetic compounds rapidly. Authorities emphasize that enforcement is only part of the solution, pairing it with education and rehab programs.
The government plans to expand school-based drug awareness campaigns, train healthcare workers in NPS treatment protocols, and continue collaboration with regional law enforcement. Officials are also exploring legislative updates to tighten penalties for synthetic-drug production and distribution.
The Mauritius Synthetics epidemic is a multi-faceted crisis, affecting public health, social cohesion, and youth development. With escalating addiction rates, government interventions — including rehab programs, enforcement, and regional collaboration — are vital to contain the epidemic. Long-term success will depend on sustained awareness, law enforcement, and community involvement.
