Spain boosts security in Ceuta as calls appear online for another mass border ru...

Spain has increased its security measures in Ceuta following online calls for another mass border breach. On July 30, at least 96 people died attempting to cross, and over 72,000 migrants entered Ceuta, according to Spanish government estimates. To prevent a repeat of the July 30 incident, authorities have beefed up police and military presence, with soldiers in combat fatigues patrolling supermarkets, official buildings, and main avenues.

Outdoor cafes are still busy, and the downtown area remains relatively calm compared to the tense scenes from two weeks ago.

In Morocco, Moroccan security personnel have been monitoring the beach in Fnideq from which many migrants swam to Ceuta. Spain has also installed a maritime barrier and sent over 500 additional police officers from the mainland. The Interior Minister stated that they will remain in Ceuta as long as the situation requires.

About 5,000 migrants remain in Ceuta, and officials have screened adults, deciding over 500 asylum cases, most of which were rejected. Spain plans to return those without a right to remain to Morocco. Meanwhile, Moroccan authorities warned of prosecution for those who initiate or participate in a mass crossing on Aug. 15.

Despite warnings, some sub-Saharan African migrants are bypassing security checks and taking mountainous routes to reach Fnideq. Some youths who entered Ceuta on July 30 warn others against crossing, emphasizing the suffering and lack of solutions for those who do make it.