Over 250 Illegal Migrants Detained in Massive Malé Crackdown Operation

Maldivian authorities have detained 254 foreign nationals for residing and working illegally in the capital, Malé, during a sweeping enforcement exercise known as "Operation Kurangi." The operation, conducted on Saturday afternoon, marked the third phase of an ongoing government initiative to curb illegal immigration and unregulated business activities. This specific phase targeted individuals who had failed to provide required biometric information, reflecting a broader push for tighter border and residency controls. Between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm, a joint task force comprising Maldives Immigration, the Maldives Police Service, and the Maldives Food and Drug Authority inspected 639 locations. Officers screened a total of 1,344 foreign nationals, resulting in the detention of 254 individuals. Of those taken into custody, 219 were men and 35 were women. Additionally, authorities shut down two establishments found to be employing foreign workers illegally. Officials highlighted a growing trend of migrants operating under "open visas," where individuals enter the country legally but violate their permit terms by engaging in unauthorized secondary employment or private business ventures. These activities often allow individuals to earn substantial financial gains outside the official employment arrangements approved by the state. Beyond the detentions, the government has intensified efforts to shutter illegally operated businesses and repatriate those found in violation of immigration laws. Authorities are also pursuing enforcement measures against employers and third parties accused of exploiting foreign workers. Immigration authorities have urged the general public, business owners, and foreign workers to adhere strictly to residency and work permit regulations to avoid legal repercussions. The crackdown underscores the state's commitment to ensuring that all foreign labor within the Maldives is documented and operates within the legal framework of the country.