Morocco: 148 migrants held after attempt to cross into Ceuta

According to officials, Moroccan authorities detained 148 migrants within and near Fnideq after they attempted a mass crossing into the Spanish city of Ceuta on 15 August, according to Anadolu Agency. 

Amid economic hardship and armed conflicts in their home countries, migrants from several countries regularly attempt to cross from Morocco into the Spanish-administered territories. There have been reports of over 1,000 unaccompanied minors who remain in Ceuta and cases of sexual assault of Moroccan girls after arrival.

In a statement given by a Fnideq provincial official, 128 of those detained were from African countries, and 20 were Moroccan nationals. 

Mass crossings near Ceuta and Melilla were prevented by a heavy security presence, and officials state the situation remains “normal and under control”.

It has been reported that online activity is currently monitored by authorities to identify those involved in encouraging mass migration attempts, with field operations designed to prevent irregular crossings and detain those organising them.

Reportedly, authorities have also deployed logistical resources and additional personnel to prevent the attempted crossings, such as surveillance drones, intervention vehicles and water trucks to avoid conflict with migrants. 

Interior Ministry spokesman Rachid El Khalfi reported how Moroccan authorities previously identified the date of the attempted crossing through “anonymous posts and messages” on social media, calling for mass illegal crossings into Ceuta and Melilla on August 15.

The ministry also believed that the call-out posed “serious risks to people’s safety” and El Khalfi conveyed that “authorities are closely monitoring the situation and taking measures to prevent illegal crossings and intercept those involved”.

Between July 29 and 31, the border area near Ceuta saw tens of thousands converge in what was termed as the biggest wave of irregular crossings towards the city; the majority returned to Fnideq.

On August 7th, Morocco’s National Human Rights Council reported that 14 people had died during the crossing, with Spanish figures putting the death toll at 80. 

Spanish authorities estimated more than 70,000 people took part in the attempted crossing, whereas Moroccan authorities reported 40,000.  

Spain is responsible for the administration of Ceuta and Melilla, as well as the Chafarinas Islands and several other rocky islets in the Mediterranean. Morocco regards them as “occupied Moroccan enclaves”. 

Anadolu Agency, Maghrebi.org