In a joint operation conducted by Police and Immigration in Kaafu Guraidhoo island, a group of expatriates have been detained for violating visa rules and business rules.

Twenty immigration officers and nine police officers were involved in Thursday's operation and a total of 39 foreigners were detained.

The foreigners arrested in the operation included Bangladeshis, Sri Lankans, Nepalese, Indians and a Nigerian, the Immigration said.

"The objective of the operation is to identify foreigners who are living in the Maldives in violation of the permits issued and those who are engaged in illegal small and medium enterprises and take action against them under the Immigration Act," the Immigration said.

Immigration Controller General Mohamed Shamaan Waheed, who also participated in the operation, said it was conducted to expand the work ongoing in Male',

Immigration said 42 places were searched and 106 checks were conducted during the operation and 11 foreigners without proper visas were issued summons. Five Maldivians who employed undocumented foreigners were also cautioned.

Immigration authorities have been identifying undocumented workers, detaining them and deporting them. More than 4,000 people have been deported so far, according to Immigration officials.