Foreign nationals who were on the Maldivian fishing vessel that crossed into Indian waters have been taken under the custody of Maldives Immigration to await deportation.
Eight Bangladeshi nationals have now been handed over to Maldives Immigration by Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
A fishing vessel was stopped by Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and transferred to the care of MNDF officials, on finding the vessel in Indian waters. A team from Maldives Immigration boarded the vessel and found out information regarding the eight foreigners who were found on the boat. Of the foreigners found on the boat, two were reported missing by their employers. The other 6 foreigners were illegal immigrants.
Maldives Immigration has also warned strict action against those found negligent in the connection with the matter. The authority noted the increase in the number of illegal immigrants being employed on fishing vessels and warned action against anyone found employing the services of illegal immigrants.