Moroccan authorities have intercepted scores of would-be migrants, most of them from sub-Saharan Africa, near the country’s northern border with the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, according to reports.
The arrests took place on Saturday, roughly two weeks after thousands of migrants rushed into the Spanish territory during a major attempted crossing.
Moroccan media outlet Le360 reported that 294 people were arrested, including 46 Moroccan nationals, while the remainder were from sub-Saharan African countries.
An official familiar with the operation described the arrests as part of a routine security effort to prevent irregular migration toward Ceuta.
Migrants Cite Insecurity and Lack of Opportunities
The forests around Morocco’s northern border with Ceuta and Melilla have long served as gathering points for migrants hoping to enter the Spanish territories and eventually reach mainland Europe.
One of those intercepted, 22-year-old Sudanese migrant Abdessamad Dawad, said he wanted to reach Europe because of insecurity and problems in Sudan.
Another Sudanese migrant, 25-year-old Chams Edine Yakoub, said he was seeking better opportunities and living conditions.
Moroccan authorities have recently increased security measures following reports of online messages encouraging migrants to head toward Ceuta.
More than 60 people have reportedly been arrested in recent days over allegations of promoting or encouraging irregular migration through social media.
Previous Mass Crossing Left Dozens Dead
The latest operation follows a major influx about two weeks ago, when approximately 72,000 people, mostly Moroccans, reportedly crossed into Ceuta, a Spanish territory with a population of about 84,000.
Most of those who crossed were subsequently returned to Morocco.
The incident also resulted in significant loss of life. Moroccan authorities reported recovering the remains of 11 people, while Spanish authorities said at least 80 people died.
However, the Moroccan Association for Human Rights has estimated the death toll at at least 141.
The latest arrests come amid continued efforts by Moroccan and Spanish authorities to prevent further mass crossings and address the growing pressures surrounding irregular migration.
