A total of 473 cases of illegal immigrants have been reported to Immigration Watch, the Ministry of Economic Affairs has revealed.

'Immigration Watch' is a platform for citizens to report immigration or border-related offenses online to Maldives Immigration. The platform was launched on July 17 this year, and allows anyone to share information about illegal immigrants with Immigration 24 hours a day.

The Immigration Department said 473 cases had been reported to the agency as of Tuesday, of which 369 were being investigated.

In addition, 82 cases are being investigated and 22 cases not related to immigration have been reported.

The Immigration Watch platform allows anyone to report an illegal immigrant or share information about a foreigner trying to smuggle into the Maldives.

The platform will allow users to report anonymously and this will provide opportunities for immigration and the public to work together, the Immigration Department said.

When submitting a report or issue related to immigration, information and photos can also be submitted through the platform.

Immigration and related authorities are currently arresting a large number of illegal immigrants and deporting them. Cafes/restaurants and other establishments operating illegally and in violation of hygiene standards are also being closed down.