Morocco thwarts migrants’ mass storming of Ceuta enclave

 

Moroccan authorities foiled an illegal migration attempt by nearly 150 sub-Saharan migrants in an area near the Spanish-occupied enclave of Ceuta.

 

At least 70 migrants were arrested in the operation which left 14 security forces and 6 migrants injured, the interior ministry said in a statement.

 

The crossing attempt was violent with some migrants carrying sticks, knives, and stones, it said.

 

Spanish officials have in recent months hailed the role played by Moroccan security forces in curbing illegal arrivals.

 

The two countries reinforced their security and border control cooperation after Madrid recognized Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara.