Morocco has stepped up security measures in areas near Ceuta to prevent any attempt at a mass illegal crossing, while calling on Spain to accelerate the return of unaccompanied Moroccan minors currently in Ceuta, the Interior Ministry said Wednesday.
The ministry said it had been monitoring anonymous posts and messages circulating on social media in recent days calling for collective attempts to enter Ceuta and Melilla illegally.
It warned that such calls could put people's lives at serious risk and said authorities had taken all necessary measures to prevent illegal crossings and intercept anyone attempting to take part.
Moroccan authorities have also arrested several people suspected of promoting or encouraging such actions online. The suspects have been placed under judicial investigation under the supervision of the competent public prosecutor, according to the ministry.
The Interior Ministry stressed that Morocco's security preparedness was not linked to any specific date, but formed part of a continuous state of vigilance, particularly in areas surrounding the crossings into Ceuta and Melilla.
The statement comes amid reports of social media calls for a new mass attempt to enter Ceuta on August 15, following a major migration surge at the enclave earlier this month. European media have also reported concerns over renewed attempts to breach the border, with the European Commission saying it was aware of threats to the EU's external borders.
Morocco said its measures were aimed at combating irregular migration while protecting people's safety and respecting the law. It also urged the public not to respond to what it described as suspicious and misleading calls.
The ministry emphasized that combating irregular migration and human trafficking networks required shared responsibility and cooperation between all parties.
Morocco urges Spain to accelerate return of minors
In this context, Morocco called on Spanish authorities to assume their responsibilities and speed up procedures to return unaccompanied Moroccan minors in Ceuta to their families in Morocco.
The Interior Ministry said the returns should be carried out with the best interests of the minors in mind, while urging both sides to overcome administrative and judicial obstacles that are delaying their return.
Morocco also renewed its call for the restoration of a mechanism for immediate returns, describing it as an effective tool based on previous experience and stressing its importance in addressing irregular migration challenges and strengthening field operations.
The ministry said Morocco would continue to fulfil its responsibilities "with firmness and responsibility" to protect public order, people and property, while combating irregular migration and human trafficking.
It added that Moroccan authorities would maintain a high level of vigilance and readiness, together with continued coordination, to respond to potential risks in accordance with the law.
