Thwarted Mass Entry Attempt into Ceuta
On Saturday, Moroccan security forces successfully thwarted a significant attempt at mass migration into Ceuta, a Spanish enclave located on the northern coast of Africa. Reports indicate that hundreds of individuals, primarily of sub-Saharan origin, attempted to breach the border but were intercepted by Moroccan military personnel. These migrants had been lurking in Fnideq, a city on the Moroccan side, waiting for the opportune moment to make their move. The attempted mass crossing occurred in a hilly region, as detailed by Moroccan sources relayed to the Efe news agency. Although the migrants were dispersed by the authorities, many continue to remain in the surrounding area.
Heightened Security Measures Amid Ongoing Concerns
In response to the escalating situation, Moroccan authorities have mobilized thousands of personnel, comprising soldiers and police officers, to reinforce security measures aimed at preventing any further mass entries into Ceuta. This fortified city is currently under the watchful eye of both Moroccan forces and Spanish law enforcement, including the National Police, Civil Guard, and the Army, as concerns mount over the potential for a repeat of the catastrophic events that unfolded in late July. During that incident, estimates suggest that approximately 80,000 migrants attempted to enter Ceuta via land and sea, resulting in a tragic loss of life with at least 141 individuals confirmed dead.
In the days leading up to Saturday's attempted incursion, social media platforms were rife with calls for a new mass entry, prompting both Spanish and Moroccan governments to bolster their respective border security. The Spanish government has notably increased its law enforcement presence in Ceuta, deploying 880 National Police officers—270 more than were on duty during the previous mass entry—and 714 Civil Guards, nearly 200 additional personnel compared to the end of July. To further enhance public safety, a specialized Unit for Prevention and Reaction (UPR) consisting of 45 officers has been dispatched, along with twenty officers from the Central Brigade for Immigration and Borders to assist in managing international protection applications from potential migrants.
On the Moroccan side, security measures have been significantly heightened, with increased patrols on roads and at maritime access points leading to Ceuta. Authorities are conducting thorough inspections of taxis and buses arriving from various regions of Morocco to identify and intercept individuals or groups deemed suspicious. Additionally, several individuals suspected of inciting migration through online platforms have been apprehended, highlighting the ongoing efforts to manage and control the migration crisis effectively.
As reported by en.ara.cat.
