Moroccan police arrest over 100 migrants trying to reach Spanish enclave | Migration News
Moroccan Police Arrest Over 100 Amid Surge to Ceuta
Published Aug. 15, 2026
Moroccan authorities have detained more than 100 individuals attempting to reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, amid increasing pressure at the border. The arrests occurred as large crowds, primarily composed of people from sub-Saharan Africa, were seen heading toward Ceuta in a series of online videos shared on social media.
This surge follows a recent crisis in late July, when over 70,000 migrants sought refuge in the autonomous city, resulting in numerous fatalities during the perilous journey. The situation has been exacerbated by a disinformation campaign on social media that has prompted more people to attempt the dangerous crossing.
In response, Moroccan officials stated earlier this week that they are actively working to prevent further crossings. A substantial police presence was deployed to manage the situation, resulting in at least 111 arrests, according to a source from Morocco’s Ministry of Interior who spoke to Reuters. Reports indicate that police utilized tear gas to disperse the gathering crowds.
Despite the tensions, many individuals are reportedly still making their way toward Ceuta, which Morocco does not recognize as belonging to Spain. The crowds initially moved through the mountains near Fnideq, a coastal town in northern Morocco, presumably to circumvent security checkpoints.
Local news outlet Le360 reported that up to 294 individuals had been apprehended by Saturday evening, including 46 Moroccan nationals, while the rest were primarily from sub-Saharan Africa.
Spanish lawmaker Jaime de los Santos, representing the conservative People’s Party, criticized Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for not addressing the ongoing crisis, which has persisted since late July. Sanchez is currently on holiday at the Royal Residence of La Mareta in Lanzarote.
De los Santos stated, “It’s August 15, and 16 days have passed since Spain experienced an influx of over 80,000 Moroccan migrants, yet Pedro Sanchez remains absent without providing any explanation or resolution to the crisis.”
As it stands, approximately 5,000 migrants are reported to still be in Ceuta, according to Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska. The humanitarian situation continues to evolve, with ongoing concerns about safety and security in the region.
