Spain and Morocco brace for renewed Ceuta border attempts
Spain and Morocco reinforce border security around Ceuta following online calls for a coordinated crossing attempt on 15 August.
Security forces in Spain and Morocco have stepped up measures around the North African enclave of Ceuta amid online calls for a coordinated border crossing on 15 August.
The heightened security follows a late-July surge in which tens of thousands attempted to reach the enclave after false social media rumours claimed border controls had been lifted. Dozens of people drowned during those attempts, with casualty estimates ranging from over 70 to more than 100 dead, while hundreds remain stranded on local beaches.
Moroccan authorities reported arresting multiple individuals accused of inciting mass illegal crossings online. Meanwhile, Spanish authorities have deployed extra police officers, cancelled military leaves, and strengthened border fencing to secure the perimeter.
Sources: Correctiv, Der Standard, FAZ, ORF, Tagesschau.