Eight arrested protesters released on bail, denounce ‘abuse of power’

Eight members of Linion Pep Morisien (LPM), arrested on Friday 3 March on charges of “taking part in an illegal gathering”, were released after appearing before the Port Louis Court on Friday afternoon.

They were arrested during a demonstration outside the Police Headquarters to demand the resignation of the Commissioner of Police (CP), Anil Kumar Dip.

Lawyers for the protesters denounced that their clients were “unjustly” arrested. “The law is clear. The charge stands if you are more than 12 people. But they were only eight. The police probably included the journalists present and pedestrians in their count,” said lawyer Anoop Goodary.

“This move by the police is an abuse of power. We live in a democratic country. The police have rights and parameters to respect, according to their functions. They should not cross the line.”

Brought before the Port Louis court the same day, the eight protesters were released on a bail of Rs 15,000. They are expected to appear before the Court on Friday 24 March. 

Source: Le Mauricien, Defi Media