Immigration Chief Warns of Strict Action Against Law Obstruction

Controller General of Immigration Mohammed Shamaan announced that strict action would be taken against anyone obstructing the implementation of immigration laws. In a post on X, Sham'an emphasized that under Article 30 of the Immigration Act, it is an offense to harbor any foreigner without the necessary permission to stay in the Maldives.

Shamaan stated that individuals found violating this provision would face penalties under Article 33 of the Act. This section makes it an offense to contravene any part of the Act or act in a way that impedes its objectives. Offenders may be fined up to RF 50,000, and the Controller of Immigration has the authority to withhold passports for a specified period.

For foreign offenders, the penalty ranges from RF 15,000 to RF 50,000, with the additional power to deport the individual for a certain period. These measures are part of a broader effort to enforce immigration laws rigorously.

The Immigration Department, in collaboration with the police, is conducting a special operation to identify and detain illegal foreigners. To date, more than 130 individuals have been apprehended in this operation. Shamaan underscored that those detained will not be given a second chance; instead, they will be deported in coordination with relevant authorities.

This crackdown aligns with the government's commitment to uphold the rule of law and ensure that immigration regulations are strictly followed. The move is expected to deter illegal immigration and reinforce the legal framework governing the stay of foreigners in the Maldives.