Former SIT Chairman arrested, indicted of ‘influence peddling’

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has arrested Rajesh Ramnarain, former president of the Sugar Investment Trust (SIT) and Principal Inspector at the Registrar of Associations.

His arrest came as part of the ongoing “high profile” investigation into the allegations of bribes of Rs3.5 million paid for the lease of a hunting ground in the Grand-Bassin region.

However, soon after his arrest, the senior official reportedly fell sick and was taken to Dr. A. Jeetoo hospital where he was admitted. Rajesh Ramnarain is facing a charge of influence peddling.

On May 4, L’Express reported that Rajesh Ramnarain finally appeared before Port-Louis and ICAC investigators objected to his release.

Rajesh Ramnarain was arrested in the investigation into the allegations of bribe for the granting of a lease on 250 hectares of land near Grand-Bassin.

Attorney General and Minister of Agriculture Maneesh Gobin, a close collaborator and Parliamentary Private Secretary Rajanah Dhalliah are said to be also linked to the case.

Source: Le Mauricien, l’Express