Morocco Calls for Swift Action on Unaccompanied Minors in Ceuta
On August 12, 2026, the Moroccan government made a significant plea to Spanish authorities, urging them to accelerate the repatriation processes for unaccompanied minors currently located in Ceuta, a Spanish enclave on the northern coast of Morocco. This call was articulated by Rashid Al-Khalfi, the spokesperson for Morocco's Ministry of Interior, during a video statement addressing recent events at the border crossing points leading to Ceuta and Melilla, both of which are under Spanish administration.
Between July 29 and July 31 of the same year, there was an unprecedented surge of tens of thousands of Moroccans attempting to cross into Ceuta, marking one of the largest waves of irregular migration towards the city. Following this influx, most individuals returned to Fnideq, a northern Moroccan city. Al-Khalfi emphasized the need for Spanish authorities to fulfill their responsibilities by expediting the return of unaccompanied minors to their families in Morocco, while also tackling the administrative and judicial hurdles that currently hinder their swift repatriation.
While the Moroccan Ministry of Interior did not disclose the exact number of minors who entered Ceuta illegally, Al-Khalfi noted an increase in anonymous posts and messages on various social media platforms that incite collective illegal crossing attempts to Ceuta and Melilla. The ministry condemned these posts as dangerous practices that threaten the safety of individuals and exploit migration issues for provocative purposes, which are criminalized by law.
Furthermore, the authorities are closely monitoring the situation and implementing all necessary measures to prevent any illegal crossing attempts, as well as detaining anyone attempting to participate in such activities. Legal actions will be pursued against those found to be involved in unlawful acts, including individuals promoting these calls on social media. Al-Khalfi mentioned that several individuals suspected of engaging in incitement have been arrested and are currently under investigation by relevant authorities.
The Ministry of Interior reaffirmed the readiness and vigilance of security forces, particularly in areas adjacent to the Ceuta and Melilla crossings. On the same day, the National Council for Human Rights in Morocco reported a tragic increase in fatalities during the mass crossing attempts, with the death toll reaching 14, while Spanish official data indicated that 80 fatalities had occurred. Moroccan authorities estimated that around 40,000 individuals attempted the crossing, whereas Spanish officials claimed the number exceeded 70,000. Ceuta, located on Morocco's northern coastline, remains a contentious issue, with Morocco asserting its claim for sovereignty over the area.
As reported by aa.com.tr.
