Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihsan has announced that the Maldives has recovered more than USD 65 million from the USD 110.6 million owed by private entities in fees for foreign workers.
During a recent press conference at the President's Office, Minister Ihsan detailed the government's efforts to regulate illegal foreign workers. He emphasized the expansion of "Operation Kurangi," which aims to address the issue of illegal immigration across the country.
Launched on June 3, the operation has successfully collected biometric data from 6,891 foreigners residing in 82 islands. The objective is to gather information on all foreigners within a year, although this could potentially be completed by January if the current pace continues. The operation will soon extend to the Malé area, beginning on November 1, with over 150 employees participating, supported by the ministry and government state-owned enterprises.
Additionally, Controller General of Immigration Mohammed Sham'an Waheed reported that 51 foreigners attempting to cross the border illegally have been deported this year. He noted that many individuals are attempting to enter the Maldives using counterfeit or forged passports and documents.
The government has set an ambitious target of deporting 5,000 illegal immigrants this year, with 4,361 deportations completed thus far. This figure includes individuals taken into custody for illegal immigration, those who voluntarily requested to leave, and those deported following notification from Immigration authorities.