Maldives Immigration has detained three foreign nationals following raids on cafes in Hulhumalé that were operating in violation of regulations.
The operation was carried out by a special task force established to address unauthorised foreign workers. Officers checked a total of 22 foreigners at the targeted establishments. Three were found to be working without valid permits and were placed under immigration custody.
Immigration described the raids as part of a continuing series of operations against illegal employment. Earlier this month, a monitoring programme in Malé checked 75 foreigners and detained one. Separate operations targeting salons and spas in Hulhumalé resulted in the detention of additional individuals.
The agency has stated that such enforcement actions will continue until the problem of unauthorised foreign workers is brought under control.