Immigration has arrested an expatriate for preparing and selling food in unsanitary conditions.
The arrest followed a search of a house in Henveiru, Malé, after a report was filed. According to immigration authorities, food was being prepared in the house for commercial purposes, violating standard hygiene practices.
Photos shared with the media show various items commonly sold in stores, such as fried leaves, fish, packaged arecanuts, and other products, being prepared in unhygienic conditions. The equipment was placed directly on the ground, and the surroundings were visibly dirty.
Immigration confirmed that the individual was running the business illegally.
Authorities continue to intensify efforts to crack down on foreigners engaging in unauthorized business activities in Maldives.
In its broader efforts to address issues related to undocumented immigrants, the Home Ministry noted that food preparation for commercial purposes has also been uncovered at immigration points.
To aid in identifying and reporting illegal immigrants, Immigration launched the Immigration Watch portal in July. In just four months, the portal received over 1,000 reports.
Over the past year, immigration authorities have deported more than 5,000 illegal immigrants as part of their ongoing operations.
Sign In
