Fishermen protest: Four expatriates handed over to Immigration

Police have confirmed that four expatriate workers were handed over to Maldives Immigration during the ongoing protest by yellowfin tuna fishermen demanding the state-owned fish company MIFCO resume purchasing yellowfin tuna.

In a statement issued last night, police did not specify why the four expatriates found aboard fishing vessels were referred to Immigration following the protests held on Wednesday and Thursday.

Permission for expatriates to remain on fishing vessels for non-fishing duties was granted in April 2021 during the administration of former president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Under amendments made to regulations four years ago, fishing vessels are permitted to carry a maximum of two expatriates, provided they hold valid work permits issued in accordance with relevant regulations.

Under the rules, expatriates are allowed to work on fishing boats in roles such as cooking or cleaning, but are not permitted to engage in fishing activities.

Police on Thursday afternoon dispersed fishermen protesting aboard large fishing boats anchored outside the canal opposite the official Malé harbour. Three individuals were detained, including Kendhoo MDP MP Mauroof Zakir, one of the founders and the general secretary of the Fishermen’s Union.

The detainees were produced before the Criminal Court today and were remanded in custody for five days.

Police also took three fishing vessels into custody in connection with the protest, but said the boats were released later on Thursday night.

“The boats were released from police custody after being handed back to their occupants,” a police media official said.

The fishermen’s association that organised the protest said police boarded vessels and dispersed what it described as a peaceful demonstration.

Police, however, said protesters obstructed vessel traffic near Male' and failed to comply with repeated advice from officers. According to police, fishermen also attempted to enter restricted areas by boat, prompting enforcement action.