Dangerous calls: New migrant assault on Ceuta reportedly planned
Moroccan authorities arrested several people for inciting mass migration to Spanish exclaves Ceuta and Melilla via social media after 40,000 to 80,000 people crossed in late July.
According to Nius, Morocco’s Interior Ministry confirmed it has been monitoring posts and messages in recent days calling for mass illegal border crossings into the Spanish territories on North African soil. The ministry described these calls as both dangerous and misleading, urging the public not to heed them.
Authorities did not disclose the exact number of arrests or when they took place. Under Moroccan law, incitement to illegal border crossings is a criminal offense, and legal proceedings are reportedly being initiated against those spreading such messages online.
The Interior Ministry stated that all necessary measures have been implemented to prevent further illegal crossings into Ceuta and Melilla, emphasizing its commitment to border security.
Unprecedented Mass Assault in Late July
The arrests come in the wake of an unprecedented migration crisis that struck Ceuta at the end of July. Spanish government figures indicate approximately 80,000 people reached the Spanish exclave during that incident, though Morocco reported a lower figure of around 40,000 arrivals. The chaotic mass crossing resulted in 83 deaths.
Helena Gebhard, a reporter for Nius, was on the ground during the crisis and documented migrants hiding from authorities in bushes in the hinterland.
Morocco Demands Greater Spanish Cooperation
The July crisis has reignited debates across Europe regarding the protection of EU external borders and Spain’s responsibility in managing migration flows through its North African territories. Morocco is now calling for enhanced cooperation with Spain in combating human trafficking networks and illegal migration.
Specifically, Moroccan authorities are pressing Spain to expedite the return of unaccompanied Moroccan minors from Ceuta to their families, a longstanding point of contention between the two nations.
The August 15 date mentioned in the social media calls represents a deliberate attempt to organize another mass crossing event, which Moroccan security services are now working to prevent through both arrests and increased border surveillance.
With information from Nius
