Maldives Immigration has intensified its surveillance of public areas frequented by foreign nationals in an effort to curb behaviors that negatively impact the community.
According to officials, recent observations indicate that some migrant workers gathering in public places have been involved in activities deemed harmful to public interest. In response, officers from the Immigration Law Enforcement and Compliance Department are conducting regular patrols to deter such incidents. Should officers encounter undocumented migrants, necessary legal action will be taken by the task force.
This heightened vigilance follows a recent altercation at the Artificial Beach in Malé, where an altercation between migrant workers resulted in a local bystander—who was filming the incident—being assaulted. Immigration confirmed that one Indian national involved was detained and subsequently deported. Authorities stressed that foreign nationals who endanger public safety will not be afforded second chances.
The government has ramped up initiatives to address the long-standing issue of undocumented migrant workers. As part of these measures, a countrywide operation known as “Operation Kurangi” is underway to identify and register migrants who lack proper documentation. The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has already collected biometric data from over 25,000 workers in connection with this campaign.
Officials assert that continued collaboration and vigilance are essential for maintaining public order and ensuring the well-being of all residents in the Maldives.
