Morocco thwarts border crossing plot to ceuta
Morocco thwarts border crossing plot to Ceuta
The Moroccan Interior Ministry confirmed the arrest of key figures behind a planned mass border crossing toward Ceuta on August 15. Authorities have also denounced social media campaigns inciting such moves and urged Spain to expedite the repatriation of unaccompanied minors.
Moroccan authorities have mobilized security forces to prevent any illegal border crossings toward Ceuta and Melilla, following the emergence of anonymous online calls encouraging a mass attempt scheduled for August 15. Interior Ministry spokesperson Rachid El Khalfi announced these measures from Rabat, emphasizing the detection of social media posts and messages promoting the event.
During a press briefing, Mr. El Khalfi confirmed that security services have already detained several individuals suspected of inciting these actions. The detainees are undergoing judicial investigation under the supervision of the competent prosecutor’s office. The ministry warned that such calls pose « serious risks to public safety » and constitute a criminal offense under national law. Both participants and organizers of these online campaigns will face legal consequences.
Uninterrupted security measures deployed
The Interior Ministry stressed that the operational capacity of security services, coordinated by the General Directorate for National Security, extends beyond a specific timeline. Instead, it reflects a permanent surveillance system in areas adjacent to Ceuta and Melilla border crossings. This framework is continuously reinforced and adapted based on evolving security threats and field conditions.
Authorities have called on the public to remain vigilant, avoid misleading instructions, and refrain from actions that endanger human life. They reiterated that combating irregular migration must strictly adhere to legal frameworks.
Call for Spain to accelerate minor repatriations
The official statement highlighted that combating irregular migration and human trafficking networks requires a « shared responsibility » approach, which cannot rely solely on one party.
In this context, Morocco urged Spanish authorities to fulfill their commitments under existing bilateral cooperation agreements. Specifically, Rabat called for expedited processes to repatriate unaccompanied minors currently in Ceuta to their families in Morocco. The Interior Ministry emphasized the need for Madrid to address administrative and judicial obstacles hindering these returns, always prioritizing the best interests of the minors involved.
Additionally, Moroccan authorities reaffirmed the importance of the « immediate return » mechanism, citing its proven effectiveness in previous border interventions. They assured that security forces will continue to uphold public order and safety while maintaining high levels of preparedness and constant coordination in full compliance with legal provisions.