Morocco Prevents Hundreds of Migrants from Entering Ceuta
On August 15, 2026, Moroccan authorities successfully thwarted a significant attempt by hundreds of migrants, primarily from sub-Saharan Africa, to illegally enter the Spanish-administered city of Ceuta. As reported by Moroccan state television, approximately 300 undocumented migrants gathered in mountainous areas were prevented from advancing towards Ceuta, without any reports of violent confrontations or material losses. The authorities mobilized substantial human resources and advanced equipment to ensure that no illegal crossings occurred into the enclave of Ceuta. This included the deployment of drones for surveillance, mobile intervention units, and water-dispensing trucks to avoid direct clashes with the migrants.
According to security sources cited by the Spanish news agency EFE, a group of migrants sought refuge in a mountainous region near the town of Fnideq, which borders the crossing to Ceuta. Thousands of Moroccan security personnel were dispatched to deter further mass entry attempts, following calls that circulated on social media prior to August 15. Reports indicate that migrants who were not apprehended continue to linger in the area. This tightening of security measures follows a crisis that unfolded on July 30 and 31, during which around 80,000 migrants crossed the border, resulting in 82 fatalities, according to data from the forensic institute in Ceuta that conducted autopsies on the victims. Humanitarian organizations, including Caminando Fronteras, estimate that at least 141 individuals perished on both sides of the border.
The Spanish newspaper El País noted that the situation in Ceuta is currently calm, largely due to the increased security presence along the border. Security measures have been heightened on both the Spanish and Moroccan sides of the border in response to the heightened alert that has arisen in recent days.
As reported by okaz.com.sa.
