Morocco's Call for Action on Unaccompanied Minors

On August 12, 2023, Morocco reiterated its demand for Spain to expedite the repatriation of unaccompanied minors currently residing in the autonomous city of Ceuta. The Moroccan Ministry of Interior emphasized the necessity for Spanish authorities to navigate and overcome the "administrative and judicial obstacles" that hinder the swift return of these minors to their families. This appeal coincided with a surge of social media calls advocating for irregular crossings into Ceuta slated for August 15. In light of these developments, the Moroccan government has declared its commitment to implementing all necessary measures to thwart any attempts at illegal crossings and to intercept individuals involved in such actions, including those encouraging these activities online.

Furthermore, Moroccan authorities have apprehended a group suspected of inciting illegal crossings and have pledged to pursue legal action against anyone engaging in unlawful acts. The Ministry underlined that the increased police presence around the two Spanish autonomous cities in North Africa is not tied to any specific date but is part of a continuous surveillance system, particularly in areas near the border crossings of Ceuta and Melilla. In a broader context, Morocco is urging its citizens to exercise vigilance and a sense of responsibility, advising them to resist falling for "suspicious and misleading calls" that could endanger lives.

Continued Vigilance Amid Migration Challenges

The official statement from the Ministry of Interior was issued against the backdrop of a recent migration crisis that peaked on July 30, when thousands of individuals crossed the border into Ceuta from Morocco. This episode was characterized by significant discrepancies in reported figures regarding entries and casualties; while the Spanish government estimated over 70,000 entries and more than 80 fatalities, Moroccan authorities reported only 40,000 crossings and 14 deaths. As the situation continues to evolve, Moroccan authorities have pledged to maintain high levels of alertness, preparedness, and ongoing coordination to address the various risks associated with migration.

As reported by es-us.noticias.yahoo.com.