Moroccan police arrest over 100 migrants attempting to reach Spanish enclave
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Moroccan police arrested over 100 individuals attempting to cross into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta.
- The attempted mass crossing follows a disinformation campaign on social media encouraging migrants to travel to the city.
- Spanish officials criticized the Prime Minister for his response to the ongoing migrant crisis.
Moroccan police apprehended more than 100 people attempting to reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, a North African territory claimed by Morocco. The incident occurred amid reports of a new disinformation campaign on social media, which allegedly encouraged migrants to flock to the city.
Footage shared online depicted large groups, predominantly from sub-Saharan Africa, heading toward Ceuta. This event follows a significant influx weeks prior, when over 70,000 people attempted to reach the enclave, resulting in numerous deaths. Moroccan authorities stated they were actively working to prevent such attempts.
According to Reuters, citing a source from Morocco's Ministry of Interior, hundreds of police officers were deployed, leading to at least 111 arrests. Reports suggest tear gas was used to disperse the crowds. Spanish newspaper ABC indicated that hundreds were journeying towards Ceuta, navigating mountainous terrain to bypass security checkpoints.
Local outlet Le360 reported higher arrest numbers, including 46 Moroccans and the rest from sub-Saharan Africa. The situation has drawn criticism from Spanish politicians, with Jaime de los Santos, a lawmaker from the conservative People's Party, accusing Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez of failing to manage the crisis effectively. De los Santos criticized Sanchez for remaining on holiday without addressing the situation or providing explanations.
Itโs Saturday, August 15th, and the week of the eclipse has already passed. Sixteen days have gone by since Spain was invaded by more than 80,000 Moroccan citizens, and Pedro Sanchez is still hiding in La Mareta without giving any explanation, without putting a stop to this crisis, and using his ministers to cover up his shameful actions.
Originally published by Al Jazeera in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.