Moroccan and Spanish security forces remain on high alert as migrants gather near the border.
On Wednesday, Morocco tightened security along the border between Fnideq and Ceuta, with police checkpoints, fences and patrols, amid calls on social media for a new mass crossing during the election day.
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The border remained calm at dawn, protected by a major security deployment in both countries to prevent a new mass crossing like the one that occurred on July 30, when some 70,000 people reached Ceuta irregularly in the largest exodus at this border crossing, leaving at least 141 people dead.
Currently, security forces are on “maximum alert” to prevent any “surprise attempt” to cross, whether by sea or land. The Royal Gendarmerie, Auxiliary Forces and Moroccan police are deployed not only in Fnideq but also on the roads leading to the city from Tangier and Tetouan.
In Castillejos, the police presence has been reinforced on the hills overlooking the Ceuta border crossing, while a large police presence remains in the urban area, particularly near the coast, which is protected by metal fences.
Security personnel have increased random identity checks and restricted traffic on roads leading to the border, allowing only those who can provide valid documentation to enter Ceuta.
Sub-Saharan Migration Under Watch
In mountainous areas near Ceuta, such as Beni Mzala, Dehar el Jarrub and Ain Alyir — within a radius of about four kilometers from the Spanish city — hundreds of sub-Saharan migrants are gathered, waiting for an opportunity to cross.
While Moroccan migrants mainly opt to cross by swimming, sub-Saharan migrants tend to attempt to climb the border fence, and although their presence in the surrounding forests is not new, their numbers have increased notably in recent weeks.
To prevent unexpected movements, the Royal Gendarmerie has deployed officers along the roads connecting these areas with the Ceuta perimeter. So far, no incidents have been reported.
teleSUR/ JF
Source: EFE
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