Morocco moves to prevent planned illegal crossings toward Ceuta and Melilla

17:30

By: Sahili Aya

Morocco moves to prevent planned illegal crossings toward Ceuta and Melilla

Moroccan authorities say they have taken measures to prevent any planned attempts to cross illegally into Ceuta and Melilla, following the circulation of social media messages calling for collective crossings on August 15.

Speaking to the press in Rabat on Wednesday, Interior Ministry spokesperson Rachid El Khalfi said security authorities were closely monitoring the situation and were prepared to intervene against any unauthorized crossing attempts.

The announcement comes after anonymous posts and messages reportedly circulated on social networks in recent days, encouraging people to organize collective movements toward the two Spanish-administered cities.

Authorities warn of risks to participants

According to the Interior Ministry, such attempts could expose participants to serious safety risks while also creating wider security concerns in the border areas.

El Khalfi described the online calls as an attempt to exploit migration-related issues through activities that can constitute offenses under Moroccan law.

The authorities have consequently stepped up monitoring of the situation ahead of the date mentioned in the social media messages.

Legal action threatened against organizers

The Interior Ministry said measures have been put in place not only to prevent illegal crossings but also to identify and intercept people attempting to participate.

Authorities also intend to pursue legal proceedings against individuals whose involvement in unlawful activities is established.

That warning extends to people circulating calls for illegal crossings on social media, according to the ministry spokesperson. Authorities are therefore treating the online dissemination of such messages as part of the broader security response.

Ceuta and Melilla remain sensitive migration points

The two Spanish-administered cities, located on Morocco's northern coast, have long been focal points for migration toward Europe.

Their land borders with Morocco make them particularly sensitive areas for attempts to enter Spanish territory outside established crossing procedures. Any large-scale movement toward the borders can rapidly create significant security and humanitarian challenges.

The Moroccan government's latest statement signals that it intends to prevent such a scenario before it develops, while warning that people involved in organizing or promoting unauthorized crossings could face legal consequences.

With August 15 identified in the circulating online messages, Moroccan authorities are maintaining heightened vigilance as the date approaches.