Moroccan authorities apprehended over 100 individuals on Saturday in an attempt to enter Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa. This action followed heightened security measures on both sides of the border due to social media calls for another mass migrant crossing.

The incident occurred two weeks after a surge of more than 72,000 migrants entered Ceuta, leading to tensions in the European Union and fueling anti-immigration sentiments. Among those detained were 109 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa and two Moroccan citizens near Fnideq, a city opposite Ceuta.

Reports indicated that Moroccan police used tear gas to disperse migrant groups near the border, with a significant police presence observed in the area. Spanish media outlets highlighted the deployment of additional security forces in Ceuta, including soldiers guarding key locations.

Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska emphasized the government’s commitment to preventing future border incidents, mentioning the installation of a maritime barrier and the reinforcement of security personnel. Madrid vowed to return irregular migrants to Morocco, except in cases of extreme vulnerability.

Authorities in Rabat had warned of potential mass crossings based on social media posts, resulting in increased security near the borders. Despite efforts to thwart migration attempts, witnesses reported migrants finding alternative routes to bypass checkpoints.

Some migrants who had previously crossed into Ceuta advised against further attempts, warning of the hardships involved. One individual, Driss Sadik, urged others not to follow his example, emphasizing the challenges and risks associated with irregular border crossings.

The situation in Ceuta remained tense, with humanitarian organizations stretched thin as they dealt with the influx of migrants. Both government officials and migrants themselves cautioned against further unauthorized entries, citing the difficulties and uncertainties faced by those attempting to cross the border.