Immigration Detains Tourist Visa Holder for Alleged Business Activities

Maldives Immigration has detained a Chinese national for allegedly violating the terms of her tourist visa by engaging in business activities and sleeping in public spaces in the capital, Malé.

The individual, identified as 33-year-old Quiping Feng, was reportedly selling keychains in cafes and restaurants over the weekend. Authorities noted that Feng, who is deaf and unable to speak, had been the subject of multiple complaints from local residents.

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We have received public reports of tourists arriving in the Maldives and engaging in business activities as well as living and sleeping in public spaces. Our team responded swiftly to address the issue, and one individual was detained yesterday.

We strongly condemn such visa… pic.twitter.com/NclfnsFCVL— Maldives Immigration (@ImmigrationMV) December 9, 2024

In a statement, Maldives Immigration reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing visa regulations, warning that strict action would be taken against anyone found in violation. The authority has also called on the public to report similar incidents.

As part of broader efforts to address immigration violations, Maldives Immigration has deported approximately 5,000 foreigners this year, including individuals without valid visas.

The case underscores the government’s ongoing crackdown on illegal activities by foreign nationals, particularly those misusing tourist visas.