Protests have erupted at Artificial Beach in Malé tonight following the announcement of the deportation of a French Muslim family who have been living in the Maldives for 12 years without proper documentation.

The family, currently residing in Th. Veymandoo, consists of a couple and their five children, including two born in the Maldives.

They moved to the Maldives after converting to Islam, citing difficulties living in their home country, France.

Over the years, the family has lived in several atolls before settling in Th. Veymandoo six months ago.

Maldives Immigration Controller Mohamed Shamaan Waheed disclosed that Immigration Watch first received information about the family’s undocumented status on July 18, 2024.

An investigation was conducted, and the case was brought before the Immigration Office on October 23, 2024.

He further wrote that with the family’s passports expired, authorities are now working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to obtain travel documents. 

The announcement has sparked public outrage, with demonstrators at Artificial Beach urging the authorities to reconsider their decision.

Many protesters expressed solidarity with the family due to their shared Islamic faith, calling for compassion and leniency.