Minister Ihusan said that biometric data of over 10,000 expatriates have been collected so far, with plans to complete data collection for all expatriates in the country by April next year.
More than 5,000 undocumented expatriates have been deported since President Dr Mohamed Muizzu took office, Homeland Security and Technology Minister Ali Ihusaan said.
Speaking on state media PSM's "Hafthaa 52" programme, Ihusaan highlighted recent government efforts to address the issue of undocumented expatriates.
He noted that since November 17 last year, authorities have been working to remove expatriates who are living in the Maldives without documentation or are involved in illegal activities.
"Expatriates conducting business illegally and those involved in crimes have been arrested and deported within 48 hours," Ihusaan said.
The minister reported that biometric data collection is underway in 138 islands across Maldives as part of the initiative to address the issue of undocumented expatriates.
He said that biometric data of over 10,000 expatriates have been collected so far, with plans to complete data collection for all expatriates in the country by April next year.
Expatriates deported include those living in the Maldives without proper documentation, valid visas, or those involved in criminal activities, including theft, drug related crimes, and prostitution.
As part of the crackdown, immigration officials are conducting searches of expatriate residences and workplaces across the country.
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