A large-scale operation conducted by Maldives Immigration on Tuesday evening has resulted in the arrest of 81 foreign nationals in the capital Malé City. The raid targeted individuals involved in illegal business activities and those residing in the country without valid visas.

According to Immigration, the two-hour operation was carried out across 25 areas in the capital. A total of 463 locations were inspected, and 932 foreigners were checked during the operation.

Authorities also reported identifying 10 locations where illegal business activities were being conducted by foreigners. Details of these sites have been forwarded to the relevant authorities for further investigation.

The operation involved a combined task force of 160 immigration officers and 66 police officers.

This crackdown follows a statement by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu earlier in the week, announcing intensified efforts to address the issue of undocumented and illegal foreign workers.

According to the president, 8,600 undocumented foreigners have been deported since the current administration took office, with further deportations expected as additional information is gathered.

This operation comes just one day after a separate raid on Monday, during which 24 foreign nationals were taken into custody.