News Desk
In a recent television interview, Interior Security and Technology Minister Ali Ihsan emphasized the swift deportation of foreigners involved in criminal activities in the Maldives. Minister Ihsan addressed the challenges in resolving the issue of illegally staying foreigners, citing the fragmented supervision of relevant agencies under different ministries as a hindrance.
During an interview on PSM News, Minister Ihsan highlighted that the Ministry of Internal Security now oversees all agencies dealing with foreigners, streamlining the process to tackle the issue effectively. Previously, responsibilities were scattered among various ministries, including the Economic Ministry for work permits, the Defense Ministry for immigration, and the Home Ministry for police services.
Minister Ihsan expressed a commitment to prioritize the resolution of the illegally staying foreigners’ issue, emphasizing the need to improve services and hold agencies accountable. The primary focus will be to ensure that foreigners residing in the country adhere to rules and regulations, with swift action promised against those who violate laws.
“Illegal foreigners, especially if they commit a crime, will be deported immediately. We have already deported 60 foreigners,” stated Minister Ali Ihsan. The recent deportations targeted individuals who were involved in criminal activities.
Looking ahead, Minister Ihsan outlined plans to facilitate the voluntary return of illegal immigrants who wish to go back to their home countries. The government intends to provide necessary facilities and enable their return with deposited funds after a brief stay in a government facility.
To enhance accountability, the ministry plans to collaborate with island councils and the Maldives Police Service to verify the information of foreigners living in the country at the fingerprint level. Minister Ihsan aims to compile a comprehensive database of foreigners within the next year.
The Interior Ministry’s recent statistics indicate that the number of foreigners with work permits in the Maldives is 139,000, with Bangladesh contributing the highest share at 90,634. According to the law, the maximum allowed workforce from one country in the Maldives is capped at 100,000. Minister Ali Ihsan’s measures underscore the government’s commitment to address the challenges associated with foreigners’ stay in the country.
