108 Detained in Malta’s Largest Illegal Immigration Crackdown

In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a joint operation between the Maltese police and immigration officials resulted in the detention of 108 individuals suspected of staying in Malta illegally. The operation, codenamed ‘Sunrise’, was one of the largest of its kind in recent years, with officers fanning out across the island to target known hotspots.

Operation Sunrise: The Early Morning Raids

The operation began at around 4 am, with police and immigration officials descending on several locations simultaneously. Among the areas targeted were the popular tourist hub of Sliema, the bustling streets of Paceville, and the industrial zones of Marsa and Hal Far. In Sliema, officers could be seen knocking on the doors of several apartments in the high-rise buildings that line the seafront, while in Paceville, nightclubs and bars were temporarily closed for inspections.

According to a spokesperson for the Malta Police Force, the operation was planned over several weeks, with intelligence gathered from various sources. “We had information that a number of individuals were residing in Malta illegally,” the spokesperson said. “Our aim was to send a clear message that we will not tolerate this kind of activity.”

Who Were the 108 Detained?

The 108 individuals detained during the operation were a mix of nationalities, with the majority hailing from Africa and Asia. Many were found to be working illegally in Malta, with some employed in the hospitality and construction sectors. Others were found to be residing in Malta without the necessary permits, having overstayed their visas or entered the country illegally.

Among those detained was a 32-year-old man from Nigeria, who had been living in Malta for over a year without a valid residence permit. He was found working in a restaurant in Paceville, where he had been employed for several months. “I knew it was wrong, but I needed the money,” he told police. His story is not uncommon, with many illegal residents in Malta driven by economic necessity.

What Happens Next?

Those detained during Operation Sunrise have been taken to the Hal Far Immigration Detention Centre, where they will be processed and their cases assessed. Some may be granted temporary residence permits, while others will be deported. The process can take several weeks, and in the meantime, the detainees will be provided with food, shelter, and medical care.

This operation is just the latest in a series of crackdowns on illegal immigration in Malta. In recent years, the government has stepped up its efforts to combat the issue, with a particular focus on preventing illegal entry into the country. However, with Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean, it remains a popular route for migrants seeking a better life in Europe.

For those concerned about the welfare of the detainees, the Malta Emigrants Commission has assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure their well-being. “We understand that these individuals are in a difficult situation,” a spokesperson said. “Our aim is to process their cases as quickly and fairly as possible.”