The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has revealed that information and relevant data of over 18,000 expatriates have been collected from 50 islands since the launch of the nationwide ‘Operation Kuran’gi.'
The Ministry of Internal Security and Technology said biometric data of 18,919 expatriates have been collected so far. The operation has been launched in 194 inhabited islands and has been completed in 50 islands, the Ministry said.
Operation Kurangi launched its first phase on May 2, in Himmafushi, Kaafu Atoll. The post-initial phase of the operation includes biometric identification procedures which will target undocumented expatriates in the country.
The information required for this operation is collected by taking biometrics of foreigners at island councils. The Minister of Homeland Security and Technology had earlier said that a national register of expatriate workers will be compiled based on the information collected.
The first phase of the multi faceted operation aims to address the longstanding issue of illegal immigrants within three years. Under the initial phase, undocumented expatriates would be offered the chance to legalise instead of deportation.
After the initial phase, a biometric identification will be generated for each undocumented expatriate and will subsequently be deported in collaboration with the respective embassies, the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology said.
The nationwide operation is being assisted by the Maldives Police Service and the Maldives Immigration Department.