Morocco blames fake news for migrant surge into Ceuta

Morocco's government has blamed online misinformation for the recent mass influx of migrants into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. In its first official statement following the crisis, the Interior Ministry stated that a misinterpretation of a Spanish court ruling spread rapidly online, leading to the spontaneous arrival of thousands of people.

A ministry spokesperson asserted that the surge was not organized and denied any government role in encouraging or tolerating the movement. This official explanation contrasts with reports from Spanish media, which cited migrants claiming they were not stopped but rather encouraged to cross the border. Many also reported seeing videos and messages on platforms like TikTok that suggested the border was open.

The differing accounts raise questions about the events leading to the crisis. While Morocco claims around 40,000 migrants intended to reach Ceuta, with over 1,100 attempting to reach Melilla, Spain's government estimates between 50,000 and 60,000 migrants entered Ceuta during the period. The death toll also varies significantly, with Morocco reporting 11 fatalities compared to Spain's estimate of at least 72, many of whom drowned attempting to swim to the enclave.

Morocco reiterated its commitment to combating irregular migration and stated it is working with Spanish authorities. However, the discrepancy in reported numbers and the conflicting narratives surrounding the cause of the surge continue to fuel speculation about the potential involvement of Moroccan authorities in deliberately creating pressure on Spain.