Runaway online rumors sparked frantic rush by migrants to Ceuta
A surge of 72,000 migrants attempted to cross into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta after viral social media rumors suggested the border was open. The event resulted in over 80 deaths and highlighted the dangerous influence of misinformation on migration patterns.
Why it matters
This incident demonstrates how social media platforms can be weaponized or misused to trigger mass migration events, creating significant humanitarian crises and geopolitical tension.
Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. --> Share
FNIDEQ, Morocco (AP) — It started with Instagram posts that suggested Spain’s border with Morocco was opening up. Then came Facebook users tracking coast guard patrols and TikTok videos showing where to swim.
After many shares and comments, thousands of Moroccans became convinced that Europe was suddenly within reach .
Within hours, young people began heading toward the border with the Spanish territory of Ceuta in North Africa. Packed buses rolled into the neighboring Moroccan city of Fnideq. Regional trains filled up. Taxis did too.
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