The biometric data of more than 18,000 foreigners has been collected so far under the government's Operation Kurangi.
The "Kurangi" operation was launched on May 2 to regularize illegal immigrants by collecting biometric data from all foreigners in the country.
Home Ministry State Minister Abdul Majeed said on "Sarukaaru" website that biometric data of 18,919 foreigners has been collected since the launch of Operation Kurangi. The operation is currently being conducted in 194 islands and 50 islands have been completed, he said.
The operation is being conducted in two phases over a three-year period.
In the first stage, foreigners are fingerprinted to ensure they are working in compliance with Maldivian laws and regulations. Once this phase is completed, the second stage will involve biometric identification of undocumented and illegal immigrants. This will be followed by collaboration with the respective embassies to facilitate their deportation.
According to the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology, the operation will collect information on foreign workers but instead of immediately taking action against them, it will also facilitate the opportunity for foreigners who want to live in accordance with the laws.
The Ministry, police, and Immigration are collaborating to effectively address the issue of illegal immigration. Through joint operations, more than 5,000 illegal immigrants have already been deported.
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