Migration crisis grows: Hundreds of migrants' attempt to cross into Ceuta stopped at the border in Morocco

In Morocco, hundreds of irregular migrants headed toward the border region in an attempt to make a mass crossing into Ceuta, a Spanish territory in North Africa. The movement, which occurred following calls spread on social media, was halted by the intervention of Moroccan security forces.

Riot police units and armored vehicles were dispatched to the area, and groups attempting to cross the border were intercepted. It was reported that some migrants were detained and that security forces prevented crossings with reinforcements. A helicopter was also used for aerial surveillance along the border line.

It was stated that the latest attempt occurred following messages spread on social media claiming that the border would be open on August 15. As one of the land borders between Africa and the European Union, Ceuta stands out as a critical transit point for irregular migration movements.

About two weeks ago, there was also intense migration activity around Ceuta. It was reported that on July 30, tens of thousands of people attempted to cross the border to reach Europe, and many people lost their lives during the events.

It was reported that measures have also been increased on the Spanish side against the possibility of a new wave of migration. It was noted that Spanish security forces sent soldiers and armored vehicles to the region, and floating barriers had previously been created at sea.

Security unions in Spain had warned that new attempts could occur at the Ceuta border and argued that the existing security infrastructure might remain insufficient in the face of such intensity. A diplomatic crisis had occurred between Morocco and Spain in 2021 after approximately 8 thousand people crossed into Ceuta.