False social media posts claiming that the border between Morocco and the Spanish enclave of Ceuta would open for Spain’s Assumption holiday have drawn migrants to the crossing, prompting authorities on both sides to strengthen security.
The posts, which circulated online, claimed that the frontier would be opened for the holiday, encouraging migrants to gather near the border point. The precise number of people who assembled was not immediately clear.
In response, Moroccan and Spanish security forces have been reinforced and controls have been tightened at the crossing. The move comes after a recent mass influx of migrants into Ceuta, which has already heightened tensions in the region.
Moroccan authorities have warned that those found to be spreading the false information could face legal action. No arrests were reported, and it remains unclear how long the additional security measures will remain in place.
The episode underscores how quickly unverified online claims can disrupt a sensitive border region already struggling with migration pressures.
