According to officials, Richard S. Maika has been residing in a rented house in the city for 27 years despite his visa expiring long ago. Police say he neither possesses a passport nor has he complied with mandatory registration norms laid out for foreign nationals, including reporting to the local police and the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
Officers revealed that an FIR was filed against Maika seven years ago for failing to provide the required information under the Foreigners Act. However, no action was taken to deport him or regularise his stay. Maika continues to reside in the city and uses an Indian mobile number. Asked about his undocumented status, he told Dainik Bhaskar: “I don’t even have a passport. Many rules have changed now. A case is also pending in court.”
Investigators have also raised concern over Maika’s online activity. His Facebook profile carries thousands of followers and features several provocative posts and videos, including comments interpreted as instigating violence and graphics depicting bloodshed. Police noted that no Indore residents appear on his friend list.
Legal experts say his prolonged stay without documents is a serious violation. Advocate Krishna Kumar Kunhare explained that earlier cases against overstaying foreigners were filed under Section 14(A) of the Foreigners Act. Dr. Rupali, a legal specialist, added that the FRRO has full authority to identify, investigate and deport undocumented foreign nationals anywhere in India.
Police have reiterated that landlords housing foreign nationals must submit tenant details through the FRRO portal, while hotels are obligated to file C-forms. The ongoing verification drive has already exposed similar cases, including last week’s arrest of an African student with suspected fake documents and narcotics worth ₹15 lakh.
