Tetouan appeal court releases taxi drivers pending trial over Ceuta migration case

Tuesday 11 August 2026 - 10:59

By: Sahili Aya

Tetouan appeal court releases taxi drivers pending trial over Ceuta migration case

Several taxi drivers convicted in connection with recent attempts to reach Ceuta through irregular migration routes have been released pending appeal proceedings in Tetouan.

The drivers were released on Monday, August 10, after their cases were transferred to the Tetouan Court of Appeal. The appellate court decided that the defendants would remain free while the judicial process continues.

The development was confirmed by lawyer and human rights activist Noufal El Baamri in a social media post.

First-instance convictions had resulted in prison terms

The taxi drivers had previously been convicted at first instance and sentenced to six months in prison, along with a fine of 10,000 Moroccan dirhams each.

Their cases are linked to investigations following recent episodes involving attempts by groups of migrants to cross toward Ceuta, the Spanish-administered territory on Morocco's northern coast.

The prosecution of the drivers forms part of broader judicial proceedings launched following the mass border-crossing attempts.

Appeals process now underway

The decision to release the defendants does not conclude the proceedings. Instead, the drivers will face the next stages of their cases while remaining outside prison under provisional release arrangements.

The Court of Appeal will examine the convictions handed down at first instance and determine whether they should be upheld, modified or overturned.

The case has attracted attention because it sits at the intersection of irregular migration, border security and the responsibilities of transport operators in northern Morocco.

Ceuta remains a sensitive migration route

The territory of Ceuta has long been a focal point for migration attempts because of its position on the northern coast of Africa and its status as a Spanish territory.

Recent mass attempts to reach the enclave have prompted security responses and subsequent investigations by Moroccan authorities.

The Tetouan proceedings are therefore being closely watched as authorities continue to determine individual responsibilities arising from the latest incidents.

For the taxi drivers involved, the appellate process now offers an opportunity to challenge the initial convictions while awaiting a final judicial outcome.