People try to travel illegally Europe via Maldives: Controller of Immigration

Controller of Immigration Mohamed Ali has said that people from African countries try to travel illegally to Europe via Maldives.

Mohamed Ali made this statement at a press briefing after a meeting between South Asian Immigration Controllers in Bandos Island today.

He also highlighted the issue of people from African countries trying to enter Maldives illegally.

When asked by a reporter whether any information has been received in relation to al-Qaida activities in the Maldives, he said that no such information had been received; however, information received regarding people from African countries, such as Nigeria, trying to illegally enter Maldives is worrying.

He noted that the most serious concern, however, is people being smuggled to Europe, and said these incidents have become more frequent.

He explained that several Interpol Wanted people have been intercepted at Maldivian borders, and sometimes caught after they enter the Maldives.

Mohamed Ali said that we should be worried not only about terrorists, but about all sorts of criminals entering our country.

“Moreover, incidents of money laundering are also becoming more common. We are faced with organised crime of all types, not just terrorism,” he said.