Seven foreigners found in violation of immigration regulations were detained during an operation conducted in Malé and Hulhumalé under the Maldives Immigration Migration Monitoring and Compliance Programme (MMCP).

Maldives Immigration said 68 foreigners were stopped and their documents were checked during the operation, which was conducted yesterday across various locations in Malé and Hulhumalé. 7 people were detained after being found in violation of immigration regulations.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the Government and the Maldives Immigration to address the issue of foreigners living and working in the Maldives in violation of immigration laws. Several programmes are currently being implemented under this initiative.

As part of Operation Kurangi, authorities have so far collected the information of more than 202,000 foreigners. The Government has also announced that, from next year, foreigners found in violation of immigration regulations will be deported immediately, without any additional opportunity to regularise their status.

Efforts to establish a long-term solution to the issue of undocumented foreigners in the Maldives will continue over the next six months.

The third phase of Operation Kurangi aims to locate and deport 2,895 people. It also targets businesses operating in violation of immigration regulations, as well as foreigners without valid work permits or visas.

During this phase, businesses employing foreign workers will be encouraged to settle work permit fees before they become overdue. Measures will also be introduced to make it easier for businesses that pay work permit fees, including those with outstanding balances, to complete their payments.

The initiative is also intended to encourage Maldivian businesses to ensure that foreign employees comply with immigration regulations.