Moroccan police arrest over 100 migrants trying to reach Spanish enclave

What the report says

Moroccan police arrested more than 100 people on Saturday as large groups tried to reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, according to Al Jazeera’s report based on Reuters, Spanish media and local outlets. The attempted crossing appeared to involve many people from sub-Saharan Africa and followed footage shared online showing crowds moving toward the enclave through northern Morocco.

The report said the effort came amid concerns over a social media campaign that encouraged people to gather in Ceuta after a recent deadly migration episode. Moroccan authorities had said earlier in the week that they were trying to block any new mass crossings. Police reportedly deployed in large numbers and used tear gas to break up the groups. Local reporting cited by Al Jazeera suggested the total number detained could be higher, with one outlet putting the figure at 294, including Moroccans and other African migrants.

Ceuta is one of two Spanish enclaves on Morocco’s coast and a recurring focal point in migration pressure between North Africa and Europe. Al Jazeera noted that the latest attempt came only weeks after a major influx and many deaths linked to attempts to reach the city. The report also highlighted criticism from a Spanish opposition figure directed at Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, reflecting the political sensitivity of migration control in Spain.