Moroccan security forces arrest nearly 300 migrants trying to reach Spain's Ceuta

CASABLANCA, Morocco — Moroccan security forces apprehended nearly 300 migrants attempting to reach Spain's Ceuta enclave, state television reported on Sunday, as authorities increased border security following calls for a large-scale migration surge. According to Medi 1 TV, 294 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa were seized on Saturday while trying to cross into Ceuta.

Additionally, 61 Moroccans were arrested for allegedly aiding the illegal crossings, the broadcaster revealed. The incidents followed a spike in social media posts urging migrants to flock to Ceuta, a Spanish city situated on Morocco's northern shoreline. Consequently, both Moroccan and Spanish authorities escalated security measures and restricted movement towards the region.

The most recent attempt follows a two-week period when hundreds of thousands of destitute migrants, misled by false information, rushed toward Ceuta, resulting in a tragic loss of life. Official figures indicate that at least 90 individuals perished on either side of the border, with human rights advocates expressing grave concern over the growing crisis.