The government has confirmed that former President Wavel Ramkalawan was involved in a Seychelles airport search linked to an ongoing drug investigation, following questions raised in the National Assembly.
The issue arose when opposition leader Bernard Georges used a Private Notice Question to seek clarity on a police operation at the VIP lounge of Seychelles International Airport on 13 April 2026.
Before raising the question, Mr Georges said it was directed to the Minister for Homeland Security and Civil Affairs, James Camille. He also noted the absence of Police Commissioner Godfra Hermitte, given the matter involved a police operation.
However, Vice-President Sebastien Pillay responded on behalf of the government. No explanation was given as to why Minister Camille did not answer the question related to his portfolio.
Mr Georges asked:
“Can the Minister inform the Assembly of the reasons behind the police operation conducted in the VIP lounge at Seychelles International Airport on 13 April 2026, during which former President Wavel Ramkalawan and his bodyguard, Mr Anille Bristol, were subjected to a full body and luggage search upon their return from an international conference?”
In response, Mr Pillay confirmed the search is connected to an ongoing drug investigation but did not provide further details.
“The search that was conducted is in relation to an anti-drug investigation. The investigation is ongoing, and at this point, Mr Speaker, I am not in a position to disclose further information regarding the matter,” he said.
Members from both sides of the Assembly pressed for clarification. However, the Vice-President repeated the same position.
“The investigation is ongoing, and at this point, I am not in a position to disclose further information regarding the matter,” he said.
The exchange has drawn attention to the absence of the responsible minister and the limited information disclosed so far. Authorities have not released additional details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.