Morocco Intercepts More Than 100 Migrants Near Ceuta Border Amid Fears of New Mass Crossing

Moroccan authorities have detained more than 100 migrants near the border with Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta, amid growing concerns over another attempt at a mass crossing. The latest operation comes just two weeks after tens of thousands of migrants reportedly reached the territory in one of the largest and most dramatic influxes in recent years.

According to Moroccan security sources cited by Spanish media and Reuters, 111 people were detained in and around Fnideq, a town known as Castillejos in Spanish, located about 3km (1.8 miles) from the Ceuta border. Most of those detained were reportedly from sub-Saharan Africa and had gathered in nearby areas while attempting to move toward the frontier.

Moroccan security forces, including officers wearing riot gear, were deployed to prevent the groups from reaching the border. Reports said police used tear gas to disperse migrants who had gathered on hills around the town.

The heightened security follows a major influx into Ceuta roughly a fortnight ago, when about 78,000 migrants were reported to have arrived by sea within a matter of hours. Ceuta’s mayor said around 100 people died during the attempt, while the vast majority of those who entered the enclave were subsequently returned to Morocco.

The latest security measures were introduced after messages circulated on social media suggesting that another mass crossing could take place this weekend. Moroccan authorities said earlier this week that they were monitoring posts and messages of “unknown origin” encouraging migrants to gather for a new crossing attempt.

The government warned that anyone organising or participating in an illegal mass crossing could face prosecution. Authorities have also increased patrols and security presence around Fnideq and other areas close to the border in an effort to prevent large groups from reaching the frontier.

Ceuta, a Spanish territory on the northern coast of Africa, has long been a major focal point for migrants seeking entry into the European Union. Its borders with Morocco are heavily guarded, but periodic attempts by large groups to enter the territory highlight the continuing pressure created by migration routes between Africa and Europe. The latest detentions underscore the challenges facing Moroccan and Spanish authorities as they try to prevent further mass crossings while managing a persistent migration crisis.