Controller General of Immigration Mohamed Shamaan Waheed has announced that the administration has successfully achieved its goal of deporting 5,000 illegal expatriates from the Maldives. Upon assuming office, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu made tackling illegal immigration a priority. Sharing information about the work of Maldives Immigration over the past year, Shamaan explained that President Muizzu had issued clear directives to address the issue of illegal immigrants. As part of this initiative, the government set a target to deport at least 5,000 illegal expatriates, a goal that has now been accomplished. Shamaan revealed that those deported included individuals involved in illegal business activities. He also outlined plans to expand efforts next year to further identify and remove illegal immigrants. To address the issue of illegal immigration more effectively, Immigration introduced a platform called “Immigration Watch,” which allows for the filing of cases related to immigrants. In addition, several operations and raids were conducted to inspect foreign-owned residences and businesses for compliance. Furthermore, Shamaan highlighted the success of the “Border Intelligence Division,” established to enhance the monitoring of immigration information, track individuals blacklisted from entering the Maldives, and oversee those who have been deported. In addition to deportations, the government has been collecting comprehensive information on immigrants in the country through an initiative called “Operation Kurangi.” As part of this operation, biometrics and data from 10,000 immigrants have already been gathered.
