Maldives deports 186 foreigners including 43 Indians for crimes

Defense News ,India Maldives :- In a recent development, the Maldives has deported 186 foreigners, citing reasons such as visa violations and involvement in drug offenses, as part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal activities. Among the deported individuals, the highest number hailed from Bangladesh, with 83 deportations, followed by 43 from India, 25 from Sri Lanka, and 8 from Nepal. The exact date of their deportation remains undisclosed, as reported by the Male-based news outlet Adhadhu.

The deportations align with the Maldives' concerted efforts to eliminate illegally operated businesses. Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihusan stated during a press briefing on Tuesday that the ministry, in collaboration with the Economic Ministry, is actively taking measures against illegal businesses operating under various names. These businesses, whether registered or unregistered, often involve foreign operators working in lieu of the registered owner, emphasized Home Minister Ihusan.

The Home Ministry is dedicated to closing down such enterprises and deporting the foreign individuals responsible for their operation, added Ihusan. To support these efforts, a law enacted in December 2021 empowers the registrar to terminate the registration of businesses operated by foreigners if there is sufficient evidence of them earning profits, either directly or indirectly.

According to Immigration Controller Shamaan Waheed, a total of 186 foreigners found guilty of committing crimes have been deported from the Maldives. Operations conducted by immigration aimed at identifying foreign workers involved in criminal activities led to the detention of several individuals, with those possessing valid documents and passports subsequently facing deportation, Waheed explained.

Highlighting the proactive approach of immigration and police, Waheed mentioned that raid operations are carried out two or three times a week. Importantly, these operations are not directed at any specific group, emphasizing the authorities' commitment to maintaining law and order within the Maldives.