News Desk
MALE’, Maldives — A prostitution ring led by a foreign national has been dismantled in the Maldives, resulting in multiple arrests and deportations, authorities announced today.
At a press conference, Deputy Chief Immigration Officer Mohammed Shifan detailed the operation, revealing that the network was orchestrated by one Arif Kamadari, a Bangladeshi national married to a Maldivian citizen. Kamadari and several associates, who had reportedly trafficked 23 women within the Maldives for prostitution since 2019, were apprehended and deported.
This action is part of a broader crackdown by the Maldives Immigration Department and police, which has seen 101 foreigners arrested between the 29th of last month and Tuesday. Over the past seven months, authorities have deported 2,013 illegal immigrants, underscoring the government’s commitment to tackling illegal immigration and human trafficking.
Immigration Controller Mohammed Shamaan Waheed has been at the forefront of these efforts, praised for his unwavering dedication and strategic acumen in maintaining border security and addressing human trafficking.
In a move to bolster public cooperation, Waheed launched a new reporting platform named Immigration Watch. The portal, available on the IMUGA website, allows citizens to confidentially report information on illegal immigrants and related issues 24 hours a day, with options to upload photos and additional details.
“Through this platform, anyone can report a case of an illegal foreigner or share information about attempts to smuggle individuals into the Maldives,” said Waheed. “This initiative allows us to work closely with the community to strengthen our efforts against illegal immigration.”
Waheed also highlighted the government’s ongoing deportation efforts, noting that those apprehended in recent operations will not have the chance to legalize their status under the Kurangi program, which aims to register illegal immigrants.
“The wisest thing is to legalize them soon. But after they come into our custody, there is no such opportunity. They will be deported,” Waheed asserted.
These intensified measures reflect a broader strategy to maintain control over immigration and ensure the integrity of the nation’s borders amidst growing concerns about human trafficking and illegal migration.
