A new attempt at mass entry into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta was foiled by Moroccan security forces on August 15th. Prompted by a widespread tom-tam on social networks – similar to that which occurred at the end of July -, hundreds of migrants gathered on the hills around the coastal town of Fnideq with the intention of forcing the security cordon towards Spanish territory.
Unlike previous episodes, the intervention of the Rabat authorities was immediate and impressive. The Moroccan law enforcement forces patrolled the border area, pushing back the demonstrators, mainly sub-Saharan, through the use of tear gas and explosive charges.
Although no injuries were reported, moments of tension were high:
Stopped in border area: Around 294 people were stopped in Fnideq (248 sub-Saharan migrants and 46 Moroccan citizens).
Arrests for incitement: Another 61 people were arrested in Morocco on charges of promoting and inciting irregular migration via social channels.
Militarized border and maximum alert in Ceuta
Although the situation has returned under control, tension remains palpable in Ceuta, just a couple of kilometers from the sites of the riots. On the Moroccan side, around 5,000 agents have been deployed, while on the Spanish side the presence of the police and army remains impressive to prevent any security breaches.
Deployment of Spanish forces in Ceuta:
National Police: 880 officers (including 45 riot police from the Brigada Central).
Guardia Civil: 714 soldiers.
Army: Approximately 2,000 soldiers guarding the perimeter.
Border specialists: 20 experts dedicated to managing requests for international protection.
Diplomatic tensions: Spanish journalists expelled
Complicating the geopolitical picture between Madrid and Rabat is a serious episode of censorship. The Moroccan authorities have expelled from the country, without giving official reasons, the reporters of the Efe news agency and the public television TVE. The journalists were forced to immediately leave the Fnideq hotels under the threat of confiscation of their accreditations and all filming equipment.