108 Arrested in Major Malta Immigration Raid

In the early hours of Tuesday, a massive joint operation by Malta’s Immigration and the Police saw 108 individuals arrested for staying in Malta illegally. The raids, which took place across various locations on the island, marked one of the largest such operations in recent years.

Operation ‘Sunrise’: A Coordinated Effort

The operation, codenamed ‘Sunrise’, involved over 200 officers from the Malta Police Force and the Immigration Department. It targeted known hotspots for illegal immigration, including apartments in Msida, Ħamrun, and Marsa. The operation also extended to industrial areas in Mriehel and Ħal Far, where many undocumented migrants are known to reside.

Arrests and Detentions

Of the 108 arrested, 72 were found to be in Malta illegally, while the others were held for various immigration offenses. Among those arrested were individuals from several African and Asian countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The arrested individuals were taken to the Ħal Far Immigration Detention Centre for processing.

Community Reaction and Support Services

The operation has sparked mixed reactions among locals. While some have praised the authorities for their efforts in maintaining Malta’s borders, others have expressed concern for the welfare of the detainees. The Malta Emigrants Commission has confirmed that they are providing support to those arrested, including legal aid and assistance with repatriation.

This operation comes amidst ongoing debates about Malta’s immigration policies and the challenges posed by illegal immigration. It also highlights the ongoing efforts by local authorities to maintain law and order and protect Malta’s borders.