Five migrant workers were detained by the Maldives Immigration authorities on 23 March, 2025, at Heenamaage parking area.

The detentions took place during a routine raid aimed at identifying and apprehending undocumented immigrants in the country.

The Heenamaage parking area has been a focal point in past immigration operations, with similar raids conducted in the area. Earlier this year, a raid in the same location led to the detention of 17 individuals living unlawfully.

In an ongoing effort to address illegal immigration, authorities have been ramping up enforcement measures. Last year, over 5,600 migrant workers were repatriated as part of these efforts.

Additionally, the Government is taking proactive steps to regulate foreign nationals entering the country. Through Operation Kurangi, biometric data from over 100,000 migrant workers has been collected. This initiative, which has already registered more than 65,000 foreign nationals in the Greater Malé area, is expected to streamline the management of migrant workers and reduce undocumented stays.