Morocco detains dozens of migrants trying to cross into Ceuta, reports say

Moroccan authorities detained over 100 migrants attempting to cross into Ceuta, a Spanish exclave on the North African coast, on Saturday. The migrants, primarily from sub-Saharan Africa, were intercepted near the town of Fnideq, located approximately 3km from the border. Moroccan security sources reported that 111 individuals were apprehended in or around Fnideq.

The heightened security measures were implemented following a surge in migrant arrivals two weeks prior, which had resulted in the deaths of 100 migrants. Spanish media and the Reuters news agency cited Moroccan security sources in reporting the detentions. Spanish authorities deployed additional security personnel and equipment, such as tear gas, to disperse groups of migrants.

Earlier this week, Moroccan authorities warned of social media posts threatening a mass crossing on Saturday, threatening legal action against those involved. Madrid increased security by tenfold, while Madrid deployed over 1,500 security officers to patrol the area. Tensions between EU nations escalated due to the crisis, with Italy suspending its Schengen agreement with Spain, and the Czech Republic calling for Spain's temporary suspension of membership, despite Spain's Prime Minister dismissing the accusations.