Moroccan security forces in the town of Fnideq have intensified operations to prevent migrants from crossing into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, with police arresting more than 100 people, according to Al Jazeera.
Key facts
- Moroccan police intercepted migrants attempting to reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta.
- More than 100 migrants were arrested, according to Al Jazeera.
- Security forces in Fnideq stepped up operations to prevent crossings.
- A social media campaign encouraged people to gather at Ceuta.
- The push came just weeks after many migrants died attempting the crossing.
Moroccan security forces have stepped up operations in the town of Fnideq to prevent migrants from crossing into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, according to Al Jazeera.
Police arrested more than 100 migrants who were trying to reach the enclave, the outlet reported.
Al Jazeera said the surge in attempted crossings followed a social media campaign that encouraged people to flock to Ceuta.
The renewed effort to cross came just weeks after many migrants died while making the crossing, according to Al Jazeera.
Ceuta is a Spanish enclave on the North African coast bordering Morocco, and it has long been a focal point for migrants attempting to reach Spanish and European territory. The intensified operations in Fnideq reflect efforts by Moroccan authorities to halt such crossings.
Why it matters
Ceuta is one of the European Union's few land borders with Africa, making it a persistent flashpoint in migration between the two continents. The reported arrests and deaths underscore the human risks migrants take and the pressure on authorities on both sides of the border.
Frequently asked questions
How many migrants were arrested?
According to Al Jazeera, Moroccan police arrested more than 100 migrants trying to reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta.
Why did migrants gather to attempt the crossing?
Al Jazeera reported that a social media campaign encouraged people to flock to Ceuta.
Where did the operations take place?
Security forces stepped up operations in the town of Fnideq to prevent migrants from crossing into Ceuta.