The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has announced the commencement of Operation Kurangi, marking the initial step towards addressing the issue of illegal immigrants in the Maldives. The launch ceremony, held in Himmafushi, Kaafu Atoll, signified the beginning of a comprehensive effort set to unfold across all islands in the coming days.
During the inauguration, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan outlined the objectives of the operation, aiming to resolve the illegal immigration challenge within a three-year timeframe. As a primary measure, he said that the ministry will embark on a data collection initiative, gathering fingerprints, photographs, and pertinent information of all foreign residents within the Maldives over the course of a year.
Additionally, Minister Ihusaan emphasised the enforcement of regulations governing foreign employment, highlighting restrictions on job transfers and sponsorship changes. He assured individuals who have already switched sponsors a pathway to regularization within the system's framework. He also said that with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's developmental projects necessitating unskilled labour, the initial phase aims to integrate all foreign workers into compliant employment arrangements.
Furthermore, Minister Ihusaan announced plans to empower local councils with access to the ministry's primary database, facilitating the maintenance of accurate records across the islands. He said that collaboration with councils will be pivotal in ensuring comprehensive information coverage. He also said that post-initial phase, biometric identification procedures will target undocumented immigrants, culminating in their deportation through coordinated efforts with respective embassies.