1. Ongoing border security measures
2. Call for cooperation on minor repatriation

Moroccan authorities have implemented comprehensive measures to prevent any illegal attempts to cross into Ceuta or Melilla, targeting anyone involved in organizing such movements. This was announced by Rachid El Khalfi, spokesperson for Morocco’s Ministry of Interior, following the surfacing of anonymous social media posts and messages encouraging a mass crossing scheduled for August 15.

In his press statement, Mr. El Khalfi confirmed that security forces have already detained a group of individuals suspected of inciting these actions. The detainees are undergoing judicial investigation under the supervision of the relevant prosecutor’s office. The Interior Ministry warned that these calls pose ‘serious risks to public safety’ and constitute a violation of the law, stressing that both participants and organizers of such online campaigns will face legal consequences.

Ongoing border security measures

The Ministry of Interior emphasized that the operational capacity of security services, coordinated by the Directorate General for National Security (DGSN), is not confined to a specific timeline but represents a permanent, uninterrupted surveillance system along the areas adjacent to the Ceuta and Melilla border crossings. This system is continuously reinforced and adapted based on evolving situations and detected risks on the ground.

Authorities have called on the public to remain vigilant, exercise caution, and avoid being misled by ‘suspicious and deceptive instructions’ that endanger lives. They reiterated that combating irregular migration is conducted strictly in accordance with the law.

Call for cooperation on minor repatriation

The official statement underscored that tackling irregular migration and human trafficking requires a ‘shared responsibility’ approach, one that cannot fall solely on one party.

In this context, Morocco’s Interior Ministry explicitly called on Spanish authorities and Spain’s Ministry of Interior, within the framework of existing bilateral cooperation, to fulfill their commitments and expedite the repatriation of unaccompanied minors currently in Ceuta to their families in Morocco. The ministry urged Madrid to overcome administrative and judicial obstacles delaying these returns, always prioritizing the best interests of the minors.

Rabat also reaffirmed the central importance of the ‘immediate repatriation’ mechanism, highlighting its proven effectiveness and positive outcomes in previous border interventions.

Finally, the Ministry of Interior assured that Moroccan authorities will continue to act with firmness and responsibility to uphold public order and safety, maintaining the highest level of preparedness and constant coordination in full compliance with legal provisions.