Moroccan security forces detained 111 migrants on August 15 as they attempted to cross into the Spanish territory of Ceuta, according to BBC and UPI reports. The migrants were intercepted near the town of Fnideq, approximately 2 miles from the border; Police used tear gas and riot gear to disperse groups of migrants gathered on nearby hills.

Background on Recent Migrant Influx

This follows a mass crossing earlier in August when more than 78,000 migrants arrived in Ceuta by sea within hours, according to the city’s mayor; At least 100 people died during that influx, with the mayor noting that the majority of arrivals had since returned to Morocco. The recent wave of attempted crossings has led to increased security measures, including the deployment of army officers, navy speedboats, and drones to the border area.

Spain’s Response and Border Security

Spain has strengthened its security presence in the region, with Madrid deploying over 1,500 security officers to patrol the border, according to Spanish media; the country has also installed a metal fence and a floating barrier to prevent future large-scale crossings. The Spanish Supreme Court recently ruled that Spain cannot send home migrants already within its territory, which has reportedly encouraged further attempts to cross into Ceuta.

Social Media and Organized Attempts

Moroccan authorities have been monitoring social media for calls to organize another mass crossing, particularly following messages circulating about an attempt on August 15, though the Moroccan government warned it would prosecute anyone involved in organizing or participating in such crossings. According to El País, security at the breakwater entrance to Ceuta was “10 times stronger than the previous day,” as reported by local media.

Local police chartered buses to transport the detained migrants to other parts of the country, according to El País; the majority of those detained were from sub-Saharan Africa. The situation remains tense as both Moroccan and Spanish officials continue to monitor the border for any further attempts to cross illegally.