News Desk
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu says the next six months will be dedicated to locating and deporting all remaining undocumented foreigners in the Maldives, following the launch of a new phase of Operation Kurangi. He made the remarks in a post on X shortly after Immigration authorities began a special operation targeting foreigners who have not submitted biometric data.
Immigration has announced the start of the third round of Operation Kurangi, with this phase focused specifically on individuals who have not provided fingerprints or photographs. The President said 98 percent of foreign workers on valid work permits have now been biometrically registered. When he assumed office, the figure stood at just 13 percent.
President Muizzu said the remaining individuals who fail to provide biometrics will be removed from the country within six months. He described the effort as part of a broader plan to deliver a permanent solution to the long‑standing issue of illegal immigration.
Home Minister Ali Ihsan said 62 percent of undocumented foreigners have been brought under the operation so far. He noted that 206,000 foreigners have been fingerprinted, while 2,933 individuals who have not yet provided biometrics have already been identified.
More than 200 immigration officers and 100 police personnel took part in yesterday’s operation, which was carried out across 26 zones between 4pm and 6pm. Officers inspected 639 locations, checked 1,344 foreigners and detained 254 individuals with incomplete visas. Notices were also issued to 44 Maldivian employers found to be hiring foreigners illegally. Authorities say action will be taken under the Immigration Act if they fail to comply.
