Spain tightens border security in Ceuta amid new mass crossing calls

Spanish authorities are investigating fresh social‑media messages that urge large groups to cross from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The posts, circulating on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, cite August 15 as a target date and repeat the phrase “we’ll meet there”. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares warned users not to be misled by false information, while Ceuta Mayor Juan Jesús Vivas said security forces are prepared and that the city needs guarantees to protect its borders.

The Spanish government has kept the alert system active, maintaining close coordination with Moroccan officials. Ministries of Defence, Interior, Foreign Affairs and Migration hold regular meetings and share intelligence, and Morocco has implemented extra border controls. Officials note that the July 31 mass crossing, which saw about 72,000 people reach Ceuta and resulted in roughly 141 deaths, is unlikely to be repeated, but they remain vigilant for any new surge.

European partners have also been consulted, with a joint letter from EU leaders urging a coordinated response. The overall stance is one of heightened readiness without raising the alarm level, as Spain seeks to prevent another humanitarian and security crisis at the enclave’s border.