According to a media source, the Maldives has deported 186 foreign nationals, including 43 Indians, after accusing them of drug offenses and visa infractions.
Bangladeshis made up the largest deportation rate.
Following the deportation of at least 83 Bangladeshis, there were 43 Indians, 25 Sri Lankans, and 8 Nepalis. The news outlet Adhadhu, which is based in Male, stated that the date of their deportation is yet unknown.
The deportations occur while the Maldives is making attempts to close down illegally operating firms.
During a news briefing on Tuesday, Ali Ihusan, the minister of homeland security, stated that the ministry was collaborating with the economic ministry to take action against illicit firms that were operating under different identities.
The minister mentioned both registered and unregistered firms among them. According to Home Minister Ihusan, these companies include ones run by foreign nationals rather than the registered proprietor.
According to Ihusan, the Home Ministry was attempting to close these companies and deport the foreign owners.
A law was enacted in December 2021 that permits the registration of enterprises conducted by foreigners to be terminated if the registrar determines, based on adequate proof, that the business is operated with the foreigner receiving profits, either directly or indirectly.
186 foreign nationals determined to have committed crimes in the Maldives have been deported, according to Immigration Controller Shamaan Waheed.
According to him, immigration apprehended a number of individuals during searches for foreign laborers who had committed crimes; those who had proper passports and documentation were then deported.
According to Shanahan, immigration and police have been conducting raid operations in a serial fashion two or three times a week. He said there is no particular group that the operations target.
