Maldives will begin to repatriate undocumented expatriates identified through biometrics data collection under the ongoing “Kuran’gi Operation”, the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has revealed.
Operation Kura’ngi, launched on 2 May, 2024, aims to provide a permanent solution to the issue of undocumented migrants in the Maldives. As part of the operation, fingerprints of migrant workers are recorded and checks are conducted to ensure that they are employed in the Maldives in accordance with the relevant rules and regulations. The data collected from across the Maldives through island and atoll councils will be compiled into a unified registry.
Speaking to PSM News’ “Raajje Miadhu” programme, the Minister of State for Homeland Security and Technology, Ahmed Siddeeq said the entire operation is expected to be completed in 2027.
However, biometrics data collection of all expatriate workers is expected to be completed in April this year.
According to Siddeeq, the second phase of the operation after the biometrics data collection will involve the repatriation of undocumented expatriates in the country.
He revealed that the special repatriation programme will be conducted in collaboration with Immigration and Maldives Police Service (MPS).
"When we take a photo on our mobile phone, we can check if that person has been entered into our database. Or you can put any fingerprint and the system will know who he is. Who or which company brought him here first. If the visa fee has been paid for that person,” Siddeeq explained.
The biometrics data collection under the Kuran’gi Operation will also assist in detecting expatriates entering the country on forged passports or travel documents, he added.
Siddeeq insisted that when the second phase of the operation begins, any undocumented expatriate will be repatriated immediately.
The ministry has provided fingerprint machines to the councils and developed a specialised application to facilitate the identification and regularisation of foreigners. The application allows individuals to upload photos of suspected illegal foreigners, providing information about their identity, purpose of visit, and affiliated company.