In a recent incident, Moroccan security forces successfully prevented groups of people from attempting to force their way across the border into Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta. This action came in response to a call on social networks for a mass migration attempt. Despite some individuals trying to breach a border fence, none were able to enter Spain, as confirmed by the Spanish Interior Ministry.
Online messages had circulated, urging people to head to Ceuta on Sunday to cross into Europe. Videos shared by local networks depicted groups of individuals in the hills near the Moroccan border town of Fnideq, along with an increased Moroccan security presence, including helicopters.
Following the incident, Moroccan authorities arrested 60 individuals suspected of inciting the mass migration attempt on social media. Security personnel were subsequently deployed to the area, leading to the dispersal of groups who had gathered to breach the border fence and reach Spain.
The individuals who had gathered at the border included Moroccans of various ages, including minors, as well as migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, Algeria, and other regions. These individuals had been residing in the area, waiting for an opportunity to cross into Europe.
Moroccan human rights activist Achraf Mimoun highlighted that such mass migration attempts were not uncommon and were often driven by social and economic factors. Families often encourage their children to seek better opportunities through immigration, inspired by the success stories of those who had previously attempted to cross the border.
Ceuta and Melilla, two Spanish territories in North Africa, have historically been sought after by migrants and refugees looking for improved prospects in Europe. Many individuals try to overcome barbed wire fences or reach the enclaves by sea.
According to the Moroccan Interior Ministry, security forces have thwarted over 45,000 migration attempts nationwide from January to early September. In August alone, more than 11,000 attempts were prevented around Ceuta and an additional 3,000 around Melilla.
Last month, a significant number of migrants tried to enter Ceuta, with some attempting to swim around controls. The ongoing efforts of security forces have been crucial in managing migration challenges in the region.
For more global migration coverage, visit AP's migration hub.
A previous version of this story was corrected to show that the figures for aborted migration attempts around Ceuta and Melilla are for August only, not the whole year.
