Rumors fuel fears of another migration surge into Ceuta
Social media has been abuzz for over a week with claims that the border crossing between Fnideq and the Spanish enclave of Ceuta will “open this Saturday, August 15”, a public holiday in Spain. In response, Moroccan authorities have reassured the public that all necessary precautions are in place to prevent illegal crossings.
The Ministry of the Interior’s spokesperson, Rachid El Khalfi, stated, “Every measure has been taken to counter any attempt at illegal passage and intercept anyone involved.”
Past migration crisis sets the context
These developments follow a historic influx of around 72,000 migrants into Ceuta over just a few days in late July. Spanish authorities report that approximately 70,000 have since been returned to Morocco, leaving about 2,000 still in the enclave, including over 1,000 unaccompanied minors.
The surge resulted in at least 80 deaths on the Spanish side, according to a forensic medicine commission, while Moroccan officials report 11 fatalities. However, Moroccan human rights NGOs claim the death toll may be as high as 141.
Crackdown on organizers of illegal crossings
Moroccan authorities have intensified efforts to dismantle networks encouraging mass illegal migration. A group of individuals suspected of coordinating such attempts has been arrested and is under investigation. The crackdown follows reports of online calls for collective crossings, not only toward Ceuta but also toward Morocco’s other Spanish enclave, Melilla, located 400 kilometers to the east.
Legal action is set to be taken against those spreading these calls, as authorities emphasize their commitment to maintaining border security and preventing further loss of life.