Maldives Immigration has detained seven expatriates during a raid targeting businesses suspected of being operated illegally by foreign nationals.

Immigration said 17 expatriates were inspected during the operation conducted on Thursday. Seven individuals found to be working in violation of immigration regulations were taken into custody.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by Immigration to identify and address illegal employment and business activities involving expatriates in the Maldives.

Authorities have intensified inspection and enforcement operations in recent months as part of measures aimed at strengthening compliance with immigration laws and regulating foreign employment across the country.