Over 473 cases have been reported through the newly launched ‘Immigration Watch’ platform, according to Maldives Immigration. The online portal, introduced a month ago, aims to streamline the reporting of immigration-related issues, particularly those involving undocumented migrant workers.
As of 26 August, the Immigration Watch portal has received 473 reports, with 369 cases currently under active investigation, according to Maldives Immigration. The agency also noted that 22 cases were unrelated to migrant workers or immigration matters.
The platform, designed to simplify the reporting process, is accessible to all members of the public. Users can submit relevant photographs directly to the immigration authority through the portal, which operates 24/7.
Maldives Immigration is currently verifying 82 cases filed through the portal, it said. The initiative is part of a broader effort by Maldives Immigration and the Maldives Police Service (MPS) to address issues related to undocumented migrants.
As part of this operation, the two agencies have conducted raids on 257 businesses and locations allegedly operated illegally by undocumented migrants. These actions have led to the apprehension of thousands of undocumented migrants, with 3,322 individuals deported to date.
Additionally, a small number of immigrants were deported for involvement in prostitution rings. Authorities have also shut down illegal food production businesses, primarily for failing to comply with hygiene standards.
With the ongoing crackdown on undocumented immigrants, observers are expressing concerns over the treatment of apprehended migrant workers and whether their basic human rights are being respected.