Seventeen foreign nationals detained at the Immigration Detention Centre in Hulhumalé have been hospitalised due to suspected food poisoning, Maldives Immigration has confirmed.

According to Immigration officials, the affected detainees are receiving treatment at Hulhumalé Hospital, with efforts underway to ensure they receive necessary medical care. While the exact cause of the food poisoning remains unclear, authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.

The Maldives Police Service has deployed officers to the detention centre following reports of the outbreak. A hospital spokesperson indicated that additional individuals were being brought in for treatment, suggesting the number of affected detainees may rise.

The Immigration Detention Centre houses undocumented migrant workers awaiting deportation. Authorities have assured that the situation is being closely monitored, with measures in place to manage the health and safety of those in detention.