Morocco detains dozens of migrants trying to cross into Ceuta, reports say
Moroccan authorities have detained over 100 migrants attempting to cross into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta. This follows a period of heightened security and a recent mass influx of migrants into the territory.
Why it matters
The situation highlights ongoing migration crises and the geopolitical tensions between Morocco and Spain regarding border control.
Figure caption, Watch: Security officials intercept migrants near crossing into Ceuta
Moroccan authorities have intercepted dozens of migrants seeking to cross into the Spanish North African exclave of Ceuta, reports say.
More than 100 people were blocked trying to make their way to the border on the outskirts of the town of Fnideq, according to Moroccan security sources cited by Spanish media and news agency Reuters.
It comes a fortnight after roughly 78,000 migrants arrived in the exclave by sea in a matter of hours - 100 of whom died, according to the city's mayor, who also said the vast majority of arrivals had returned to Morocco.
Security had been stepped up in the area after the influx and amid suggestions on social media of a second mass crossing attempt this weekend.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in