Over 500 undocumented workers live in the woods: Laamu Gan council

Laamu Gan Island Council has said that over 500 undocumented expatriate workers live in the uninhabited areas around the island.

Speaking at a press conference at the Local Government Authority today, Vice President of Laamu Gan council Mohamed Shiyam said that the large number of undocumented workers, living in the woods, survive by farming on public lands and selling their produce in Male’.

“There are foreigners living in the woods. They live and farm independently, and have a large network. They also purchase goods from locals, give them to agents and have broad businesses in Male’,” Shiyam said.

Shiyam said that despite numerous discussions with police, the issue has not been addressed. The council will discuss the issue with the Department of Immigration and Emigration to seek deportation of the undocumented workers, he said.

The press conference was held following meetings between Laamu Gan Island Council and the Local Government Authority, to discuss the different issues facing the island.

Spanning a distance of 7,800 kilometers, Laamu Gan is the longest island in the country.