111 migrants arrested after attempting to enter Spanish enclave from Morocco

Moroccan security forces arrested at least 111 migrants over the weekend who attempted to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, following calls on social media for a mass crossing. The migrants, mostly from sub-Saharan African countries, were stopped near Fnideq using tear gas. The operation comes against the backdrop of an unprecedented migration wave about two weeks ago, in which about a hundred deaths were reported.

Moroccan security forces arrested at least 111 migrants over the weekend who attempted to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in North Africa. The operation took place near the town of Fnideq, following calls spread on social media for a "mass crossing." The migrants, most of whom came from sub-Saharan African countries, were stopped by Moroccan forces before they could reach the border fences separating Morocco from the enclave. During the dispersal, security forces used tear gas against groups that had gathered on the hills overlooking the border. The security effort in the area has been significantly reinforced, including the deployment of military forces, the use of drones, and naval boats. In addition, new physical obstacles have been erected, including metal fences and floating barriers at sea, designed to make it harder for those seeking to enter Europe illegally. The current tension comes after an unprecedented migration wave about two weeks ago, during which tens of thousands of people attempted to cross the border within hours. During the crisis, about a hundred deaths were reported, along with reports of violence against residents of Ceuta and businesses. These events have placed the issue of border security at the top of the agenda for Madrid and Rabat, which are now tightening their security coordination.