Malé, Maldives — More than 31 undocumented expatriates were apprehended in a joint operation carried out by Maldives Immigration and the Maldives Police Service in Malé City on Wednesday.

The raid was conducted on Dhilbahaaru Magu following multiple public reports about businesses on the street allegedly being controlled and operated by undocumented foreign workers. Immigration officials, along with police officers, inspected several businesses and residential buildings in the area. During the operation, authorities found numerous expatriates working without valid documentation.

All 31 individuals taken into custody are now being held at the Immigration Remand Facility as further investigations continue.

The operation is part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on undocumented migrant workers. Maldives Immigration has intensified such operations in recent months, conducting similar raids across various islands, including a recent sweep in Addu City.

According to Immigration officials, more than 6,000 expatriates have been deported over the past two years for violations including working without permits, overstaying visas, and operating businesses illegally.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring compliance with immigration laws and safeguarding lawful employment practices across the country.