The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has announced that the first phase of Operation Kurangi, has been completed in 50 islands.

Launched in April, the initiative has so far collected biometric data, including fingerprints, from 18,919 migrant workers. The operation, which began in 194 islands, is being rolled out in three phases to ensure that all foreign workers in the Maldives are employed in compliance with the country’s laws and regulations.

The first phase, which aims to address undocumented migration in the Maldives, focused on identifying migrant workers and recording their biometric data through systems set up in local council offices. This data is being used to compile a central register of foreign workers. During this stage, migrant workers are also given an opportunity to regularise their status in line with Maldivian regulations.

The next two phases of the operation will concentrate on identifying undocumented individuals and creating comprehensive biometric records over the next two years. The final phase will involve collaborating with the embassies of relevant countries to confirm the identities of undocumented individuals and facilitate their return if necessary.

Operation Kurangi is being overseen by the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology in partnership with Maldives Immigration and the Maldives Police Service. The initiative is part of a broader effort to establish a sustainable and systematic approach to managing undocumented migration in the Maldives.