Unauthorised use of Mauritius ‘Coat of Arms’ could entail prosecution

The use of the Coat of Arms of Mauritius without the authorisation of the Prime Minster’s Office (PMO) could entail criminal prosecution.

In a communique issued on January 20, the PMO has drawn public attention to section 76A of the Criminal Code. The law provides that “no person shall use the ‘Arms of Mauritius’ except with the express authorisation of the Prime Minister.”

“Any person who fails to comply with section 76A (1) of the Criminal Code, whether in Mauritius or elsewhere, shall commit an offence and shall be liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding Rs 200,000 and to penal servitude,” it warned.

A soft copy of the design of the “Arms of Mauritius” may be obtained from the Government Printing Department, upon request, after authorisation has been granted by the Prime Minister’s Office.