Moroccan authorities detained earlier on Saturday more than 100 migrants who were attempting to cross into Ceuta, two weeks after the major wave involving around 80,000 migrants.
Moroccan security sources cited by Spanish media and Reuters said that 111 people were stopped while attempting to reach the border on the outskirts of the town of Fnideq (known as Castillejos in Spanish) or in the surrounding area, approximately 3 kilometers from the border.
The majority came from sub-Saharan Africa.
The Moroccan police reportedly used tear gas to disperse groups of migrants who had gathered on nearby hills, the BBC reported.
It is estimated that 78,000 migrants arrived in Ceuta (Spanish territory in Africa surrounded by Morocco) by sea within a few hours. Around 100 people lost their lives, according to local authorities.
Following the incident that led to a crisis, Spanish and Moroccan authorities stepped up security measures in the area amid rumors on social media that a second mass attempt to cross would take place this weekend.
Days ago, Morocco said it was monitoring “the circulation of social media posts and messages of unknown origin” calling for a mass crossing today, Saturday. It also warned that it would prosecute those organizing and participating in the call.
For its part, Spain has deployed more than 1,500 police officers to patrol the area.
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