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Migrant Surge at Ceuta-Morocco Border Sparks Security Alert and Diplomatic Cooperation

Tuesday 27 August 2024 - 10:15

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A significant influx of migrants attempting to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco has triggered a heightened security alert along the border between Fnideq and Ceuta. The situation has brought attention to the ongoing challenges of managing irregular migration in the region and highlighted the importance of bilateral cooperation between Spain and Morocco.

On Sunday, hundreds of migrants, including both minors and adults, attempted to swim to Ceuta, taking advantage of thick fog and rough sea conditions. The Moroccan authorities, led by Younes Tazi, the Wali of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, swiftly responded to the situation, thwarting numerous attempts at illegal immigration over the weekend.

The incident created a tense atmosphere on Tarajal beach in Ceuta, where the migrants mixed with local bathers upon arrival. Spanish security forces cordoned off the area to identify all individuals present, leading to some discomfort among visitors. The situation escalated when a police officer was injured by a stone thrown by an unidentified person, resulting in one arrest for contempt of authority.

Cristina Pérez, the Government Delegate in Ceuta, described the current migratory pressure as "extreme," with an average of 500 entry attempts daily from Morocco and Algeria. The Temporary Immigrant Stay Center (CETI) in Ceuta is reported to be overcrowded, though authorities maintain that the situation is under control.

Juan Vivas, President of Ceuta, emphasized the crucial role of Morocco's collaboration in managing the crisis. He stated that Moroccan authorities prevented approximately 300 swimmers from entering Ceuta on Sunday alone. Vivas called for calm, attributing the controlled situation to the effective work of security forces on both sides of the border.

Morocco's efforts to curb irregular migration have shown notable results. In 2023, Moroccan border control and law enforcement intercepted around 87,000 individuals attempting to cross to Europe, predominantly from sub-Saharan Africa. The Royal Armed Forces, in coordination with other agencies, have intensified surveillance measures across land and maritime borders.

Spanish officials, including Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, have praised the collaboration between Spain and Morocco in addressing irregular immigration, counterterrorism, and human trafficking. This partnership has contributed to a reported 30% decrease in irregular entries from Moroccan coasts.

Despite these efforts, shifting migration patterns and instability in the Sahel region continue to pose significant challenges for both Morocco and Spain in managing irregular migration flows. The recent events in Ceuta underscore the need for ongoing cooperation and adaptive strategies to address this complex issue.

As the situation evolves, both countries remain committed to strengthening their collaborative approach to border security and migration management, balancing humanitarian concerns with the need to maintain order and safety in the region.