CEUTA, Spain – The borders of Ceuta and Melilla remain on maximum alert as Moroccan security forces reported on Saturday that they had thwarted an attempt by hundreds of migrants, mostly from sub-Saharan Africa, to cross irregularly into Ceuta. The migrants had reportedly hidden on the outskirts of the border town of Fnideq before being dispersed by authorities.
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The centre of Fnideq remains calm, with a large police deployment and checkpoints on the main access roads. Morocco has sought to demonstrate its commitment to containing a potential new surge of crossings, following criticism over the influx of 80,000 people on July 30. The situation in Ceuta is far from normal, with thousands of irregular migrants still roaming the streets of the autonomous city.
The Spanish government has defended Moroccan authorities throughout the crisis, ruling out any involvement in the mass assault. Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska reiterated Spain’s “loyalty and trust” in cooperation with Rabat, stating that Morocco is implementing its border protection measures in Ceuta and Melilla “in a relevant and important way.” The Tarajal border crossing has remained calm since Saturday morning.
The Moroccan Royal Navy has deployed six semi-rigid vessels at sea, while on land, thousands of Auxiliary Forces agents, supported by Gendarmerie officers, are controlling the border perimeter and protecting the mountainous areas. A new four-metre-high metal barrier has been installed near the border, with concertina wire erected along the route connecting Fnideq to the Ceuta crossing, designed to prevent large groups from approaching the frontier. Security checks have been extended to the town of Castillejos, just two kilometres from the Moroccan perimeter, where a first security filter has been established.
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Meanwhile, the Civil Guard’s Maritime Service is patrolling the waters with its vessels, while military personnel and National Police officers are controlling the land border. The heightened security measures reflect ongoing concerns about the potential for further mass crossing attempts, particularly in light of social media calls for renewed assaults. Authorities remain on high alert as the situation continues to evolve, with both Spanish and Moroccan forces working to maintain border security and prevent further incidents. The operation is being closely monitored by officials on both sides, with no reports of injuries or successful crossings at this time. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.
