AUTHORITIES in Mauritius have arrested Maminiaina Ravatomanga, a close aide to former Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina, on money laundering charges, officials confirmed on Friday.
Ravatomanga, who fled to Mauritius shortly after Rajoelina’s departure amid youth-led protests in Madagascar, was detained in Port Louis by the Mauritian Police and the Financial Crimes Commission.
Investigators allege that Ravatomanga laundered more than 7.3 billion Mauritian rupees — equivalent to US$163 million — through property acquisitions and business dealings in the island nation.
His arrest comes as Madagascar continues to face political unrest following weeks of mass demonstrations sparked by power and water shortages, which forced President Rajoelina to flee the country.
Authorities in both Mauritius and Madagascar have yet to comment on whether an extradition request will be made, as investigations into the alleged financial crimes continue.