Morocco expels Efe and TVE journalists from Castillejos border city

Moroccan authorities have ordered journalists from Spanish news agencies Efe and TVE to leave the city of Fnideq, also known as Castillejos. The reporters were in the area to cover the ongoing migrant crisis unfolding at the border with the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. This situation intensified in late July when an estimated 80,000 people entered Ceuta irregularly.

According to Efe, the expelled reporters were documenting the actions of Moroccan riot police. The forces used tear gas and batons to disperse hundreds of migrants, primarily from sub-Saharan Africa, who were attempting to reach the border. The Spanish government has publicly defended freedom of the press globally and stated it is working to resolve the situation for the affected journalists. The Spanish embassy in Rabat is reportedly in constant contact with both the journalists and Moroccan officials.

Efe reported that Youssef Hajji, the local representative for the Ministry of Interior, informed Efe's correspondent that he had to leave the town immediately, offering no explanation but stating he was "following instructions." Hajji also warned that their professional accreditations and equipment could be confiscated if they did not comply. Efe contacted the Moroccan Ministry of Interior and its director of communication, who promised to investigate the matter. Later, hotels housing the journalists were also instructed by local authorities to evict them.

In response to Morocco's actions, Efe has asserted the right to freedom of information in its coverage within the country. The agency's president, Miguel Ángel Oliver, urged Moroccan authorities to respect the "responsible and rigorous" exercise of journalism, particularly in reporting on events in Castillejos.