The Economic Ministry has announced that 11 illegal businesses have been closed so far under the operation launched last month. 

In a statement issued today, the Economic Ministry said that they have received 125 reports in response to their public appeal to report illegal businesses conducted by expatriates.

Following up on these reports, the ministry has inspected 20 cafe's, 12 retail outlets, two garages and a guesthouse. Of these, 11 has been shut down. 

Reasons for closure include illegal sale of tobacco products, the ministry said. 

The ministry said that the operation cracking down on illegal businesses is conducted by a national task force which includes the ministry. They said that they are investigating businesses being conducted by expatriates using a Maldivian as a front. 

Reports of illegal businesses conducted by expatriates can be submitted through calling the ministry on 3333199 or through the ministry's website, the statement reads.