Moroccan authorities apprehended over 100 individuals on Saturday for attempting to enter Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa. The heightened security measures were in response to social media calls for another mass migrant crossing, following a recent surge of over 72,000 migrants into Ceuta, which led to EU tensions and anti-immigration sentiments.
Among those detained were 109 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa and two Moroccan citizens near Fnideq, the Moroccan city opposite Ceuta. Reports indicated that Moroccan police used tear gas to disperse migrant groups near the border.
In response to the situation, Spanish soldiers secured supermarkets in Ceuta while police patrolled the streets, maintaining calm compared to the aftermath of the previous crossing attempt. Madrid reinforced security by installing a maritime barrier and deploying additional police personnel.
Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska emphasized the need to restore normalcy and prevent future incidents. He stated that migrants who entered irregularly would not be allowed to stay in Ceuta or mainland Spain unless under extreme circumstances. Plans were in place to return those without the right to remain to Morocco.
Authorities in Rabat monitored social media for potential mass crossing calls, leading to increased security near the border. Reports also indicated security measures near Spain’s other North African enclave, Melilla. Despite efforts to prevent crossings, some sub-Saharan migrants were observed taking mountain routes to bypass security.
Residents in Fnideq witnessed schools being repurposed to accommodate security forces near the border. Some migrants who successfully entered Ceuta advised against further attempts, warning of the hardships involved.
Participants in the mass crossings were reported to coordinate dates and gather in Fnideq for strength in numbers. The desire for a better future motivated some migrants to take risks, despite the challenges faced during border crossings.