Near Miss for Prime Minister’s Convoy in Pailles

On the eve of Christmas, a near accident involving a convoy escorting Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam occurred on the M1 highway near Camp-Chapelon in Pailles. Fortunately, the incident was avoided due to the quick actions of the escorting motorbike officers.

According to a police statement lodged by a member of the VIP Security Unit (VIPSU), the convoy was en route to Port-Louis that morning when a four-wheel-drive vehicle (4×4) was spotted in the middle lane.

A motorcyclist ahead of the Prime Minister’s vehicle signaled to the 4×4 driver to remain in his lane.

Alarmingly, the 47-year-old driver from La Prairie abruptly changed lanes, veering into the fast lane.

The alert members of the VIPSU quickly adjusted the convoy’s trajectory, maneuvering the vehicles back into the middle lane and narrowly avoiding a collision just meters away from the 4×4.

After the convoy passed, a motorcyclist from the VIPSU attempted to instruct the 4×4 driver to pull over.

However, the driver ignored the requests and attempted to flee, even as motorcyclists positioned their bikes in front of his vehicle.

Reports indicated that he nearly struck three police officers who were also trying to get him to shut off his engine.

In an effort to halt the 4×4, a delivery truck driver, witnessing the chaos, positioned his vehicle across two lanes of the highway, thereby preventing the 4×4 from escaping.

This temporary disruption in traffic persisted while police followed up on necessary procedures.

Eventually, one of the motorbike officers took control of the 4×4 and transported it to the Pailles police station.

During questioning, the driver claimed he did not fully understand the commands given by the motorcyclists.

The driver, who is a manager, faced serious consequences as the police charged him with dangerous driving and failing to stop when signaled by an officer in uniform.

Following the instructions of Superintendent Seebaluck, he was eventually allowed to leave, but an investigation into the incident is underway.

The VIPSU leadership is planning to review this case and make any necessary adjustments to ensure increased safety for future convoys involving the Prime Minister, the President, very important persons (VVIPs), or international dignitaries.

Source: Le Mauricien