38 migrants to be deported over drug possession and gambling

Maldives Police Service announced that 38 Bangladeshi nationals have been handed over to Maldives Immigration for deportation in connection with alleged illicit activities, including drug possession and use, and gambling.

In a statement issued to the media, the police confirmed that the individuals were taken into custody during a joint operation conducted yesterday by Police Intelligence and the Drug Enforcement Department. The operation was initiated based on intelligence reports concerning these unlawful activities.

According to authorities, all 38 individuals detained in connection with the case are Bangladeshi men. The police further stated that they have been transferred to the custody of Maldives Immigration to facilitate deportation proceedings in accordance with the Immigration Act.

The involvement of foreign nationals in serious crimes, including drug-related offenses and violent activities, has been an increasing concern in the Maldives. Additionally, the presence of undocumented migrants and instances of criminal behavior among certain groups continue to pose significant challenges.

The current administration has pledged to address the issue of undocumented migrants within the first three years of its term. As part of these efforts, “Operation Kurangi” has been launched to collect biometric data and regularize undocumented workers. Home Minister Ali Ihusaan has previously stated that, upon completion of this initiative, the identities of all foreign nationals in the country will be verified, thereby strengthening accountability mechanisms.