Immigration: Advancements made in the fight against human trafficking

Maldives Immigration has said that the government is making progress in their effort to put an end to human trafficking.

Responding to a question from Sun Media regarding a statement issued by opposition MDP with allegations of allowing human trafficking with illegal expatriates bring brought to the country, the Information Offier of Immigration, Hassan Khaleel said that there is no truth to the accusations by the opposition party.

Khaleel said that the numerous government efforts in the fight against human trafficking is evident in the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report issued by the US State Department as well.

He said that the country on the tier 2 watch list, second level, identified as a country making progress.

The Information Officer of Immigration said that the report from the US State Department notes three things including that the government is punishing those who is responsibile for the crime and helping the victims.

When an expatriate wants to come to the country, they can now register on the Immigration System through their agent before arriving in the country.

Khaleel said that the report also noted areas that need improving as well and under the advisement of the Economic Minister, Mohamed Saeed, they are working to make the improvements by working with the relevant authorities.