Spanish intelligence warned of Ceuta mass crossing plans before surge

Spanish intelligence services disclosed warning notices about planned mass migrant crossings into Ceuta, just a day before the event took place, according to recently declassified government documents. On July 29, the National Intelligence Service (CNI) informed Moroccan and Ceuta authorities about social media groups urging migrants to cross the border the following day.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez maintains that these events could not have been predicted, but opposition parties argue that the documents indicate government deception. Sánchez had previously claimed there was no information suggesting the severity of the "crisis" he expected in late July. At least 72,000 migrants crossed from Morocco into Ceuta on July 30 and 31, with most attempting to swim around a border fence.

At least 100 people perished during the crossings, according to Ceuta's mayor. While many returned, around 5,000 remain in makeshift camps or on the city's streets and beaches, causing unrest. In a July 29 note, the CNI reported that approximately 180,000 people received the messages, urging them to cross "on Throne Day" when authorities would be distracted by celebrations.

The documents, released amid accusations of government misleading Spaniards, are part of over 40 security documents declassified following public pressure on Sánchez. Opposition politicians assert that the newly released materials contradict Sánchez's claim of unanticipated mass arrivals, while the government maintains it acted on the available information.