Special Mobile Force Museum | Vacoas Phoenix

The SMF Museum is located within the Abercromby Barracks in Vacoas, Mauritius. It functions as the historical archive for the nation's paramilitary unit, established in 1960.

Location & Access Logistics

Site: Abercromby Barracks, Vacoas-Phoenix.

Security: The museum is situated inside a restricted military installation. Public entry is not open-access; it generally requires official clearance from the Mauritius Police Force or is permitted during specific national ceremonies and police open days.

Transport: Accessible via the Vacoas Metro Express station or the Vacoas central bus terminal, followed by a short commute to the barracks entrance.

Historical Context

The Special Mobile Force was created to fill the security vacuum left by the departing British garrison. The museum tracks this transition, highlighting how the unit was initially formed from WWII veterans and local police volunteers.

Key Exhibits

Weaponry: A collection of small arms and light weapons utilized by the force over the last six decades.

Military Vehicles: Display of armored personnel carriers and specialized vehicles used for internal security and disaster response.

Uniforms & Medals: Evolution of SMF attire and decorations awarded for service.

Disaster Relief: Equipment and photographic records of the SMF's role in cyclone recovery and search-and-rescue operations.

Infrastructure & Connectivity

Facility: Housed in a heritage building within the barracks perimeter, often identified in records as the "Old Special Mobile Force Museum."

Connectivity: High-speed 4G/5G mobile network coverage is available throughout the site.

Nearby Landmarks

Vacoas Market: 1.5 km

Mauritius Glass Gallery: 2.2 km

Phoenix Mall: 3.0 km

Trou aux Cerfs Volcano: 3.5 km