Maldives Immigration detains 16 illegal immigrants

Maldives Immigration has detained 16 illegal immigrants.

Aiming to ensure the safety and security of the public, Maldives Immigration is actively working to track down illegal immigrants. Under these efforts, it had detained a total of 16 illegal immigrants, after raiding six cafés operating in Hulhumale’ Phase I. The raids were conducted from September 24-25. Immigration stated relevant authorities had issued notices against three cafés, for not operating with the necessary permits.

Maldives Immigration, in collaboration with other government authorities, have deported 4,054 individuals, as of September 17. Under this joint operation, nationwide efforts are underway to collect the information of immigrants. The government has also announced that immigrants operating businesses or involved in trade activities illegally, will be detained and deported.This initiative has uncovered several concerns. As such, the Ministry of Homeland Security and Safety has stated that there are several immigrants residing in the Maldives illegally. It revealed that although immigrants enter the country with an open visa or a free visa facilitated by the sponsor, they engage in their own employment upon arriving at the Maldives.