Immigration Closes Six Cafés in Hulhumale’ for Hygiene Violations

Maldives Immigration issued closure notices to six cafes that failed to comply with hygiene standards and detained four expatriate workers without valid visas during raids in Hulhumale’ Phase II last week.

https://x.com/ImmigrationMV/status/1827962231969243482

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According to Maldives Immigration, the raids were carried out on Thursday by a special taskforce as part of a crackdown on illegal migrants in the country. The operation, conducted in collaboration with the police, the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA), the Health Protection Agency (HPA), and the Economic Ministry, targeted eight cafes in the area.

Six of these establishments were found to be operating illegally and not meeting required hygiene standards, leading to their closure notices. Additionally, four migrant workers employed at these cafes were detained due to their lack of valid visas.

The operation aimed at addressing illegal businesses run by migrants has revealed several instances where food items commonly sold in cafes and stores were being prepared in unsuitable and unhygienic conditions.

Health Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel has pledged to close such businesses to ensure public health and safety.

The recent implementation of the Food Safety Act on August 23 has granted the MFDA enhanced powers, including the ability to impose fines and order the closure of unregistered businesses. Fines range from MVR 50,000 to MVR 100,000.