Four young Moroccans rescued after attempted swim to Ceuta

Monday 02 - 22:22

Four young Moroccans were rescued off the coast of Ceuta on Monday after attempting to swim to the Spanish enclave under challenging weather conditions.

The maritime area between Fnideq and Ceuta once again became the scene of a dangerous migration attempt, as several young men braved rough seas and strong winds in an effort to reach Spanish territory. Rescue operations were concentrated near the Juan XXIII and Tarajal sectors.

Spanish maritime authorities, including the Guardia Civil and the specialized GEAS diving unit, intervened to assist migrants caught in the waves. Four young men, clinging to makeshift buoys and exhausted by the harsh conditions, were pulled to safety. One of them was in critical condition and was transported to a hospital for medical care before being handed over to the authorities.

This incident highlights a persistent pattern of irregular migration to Spanish enclaves in northern Morocco. According to 2025 data, 3,268 migrants successfully reached Ceuta, while tens of thousands of attempts were prevented in the Tarajal and Benzú areas. Since the beginning of 2026, nine deaths have been recorded, with additional reports of disappearances still being investigated.

Attempts to swim across in hazardous conditions underline the ongoing risks faced by migrants and the continued pressure on border and maritime authorities in the region.