Malé, Maldives — Maldives Immigration apprehended an expatriate worker during a raid on a residence in the capital city, where food items were being prepared and packed in highly unhygienic conditions. The raid revealed various food products, including areca nuts being cut and packaged for sale without any hygienic measures.

Immigration authorities confiscated all food items found at the site and confirmed that the facility was operating without adhering to food safety regulations.

The raid is part of an ongoing campaign by Maldives Immigration to address violations of immigration laws. This includes expatriates conducting illegal businesses, working without proper documentation, and visa violations.

In the last 12 months, over 4,000 expatriates have been deported as part of these enforcement efforts. Maldives Immigration continues to carry out inspections across the capital and other islands to identify individuals engaged in unauthorized activities.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring public health and compliance with immigration and business regulations, urging the public to report any violations they observe.