Seven more expatriates taken into immigration custody
Seven foreigners were taken into custody following immigration raids in Male' targeting expatriates conducting illegal businesses, during which a total of 17 individuals were screened. As the government accelerates efforts to establish a comprehensive migrant database through "Operation Kurangi," authorities have announced a zero-tolerance policy effective January next year, under which undocumented immigrants will face immediate deportation without further grace periods. Maldives Immigration continues to actively process and repatriate individuals apprehended during these ongoing enforcement operations.
As part of the ongoing operations conducted by Maldives Immigration to locate undocumented expatriates residing illegally in the country. | Maldives Immigration
Seven more expatriates have been taken into immigration custody as part of the government’s ongoing special operation to locate undocumented migrants in the Maldives.
These individuals were apprehended during a series of raid operations conducted by Immigration authorities across various areas of Malé.
According to Maldives Immigration, the latest operation specifically targeted businesses being operated illegally by expatriates. During the operation, a total of 17 expatriates were inspected, seven of whom were taken into immigration custody for residing in the country unlawfully.
This year, Maldives Immigration has conducted numerous raid operations across Malé and the administrative atolls. Highlighting that a significant number of expatriates have been detained during these operations, the agency stated that efforts to repatriate those held at the deportation center are ongoing without interruption.
Authorities have reported that information on more than 202,000 migrants has been collected so far under "Operation Kurangi," a government initiative launched to address the issue of undocumented migration. This effort involves the creation of a comprehensive database that includes the fingerprints and photographs of all foreign nationals residing in the Maldives.
Furthermore, the government has announced that the leniency currently extended to undocumented immigrants will conclude by next year. The government warned that starting in January, any foreign national found to be residing in the Maldives illegally will face immediate deportation without further opportunity to regularize their status.
