On August 15, 2026, Spanish authorities in Ceuta reported a new attempt by migrants to cross the border from Morocco, according to local police sources. The incident occurred just two weeks after a tragic event on August 1, when a rumor of an open border led to a stampede that resulted in the deaths of at least two migrants.
The August 15 alert involved a group of approximately 50 migrants who tried to swim around the breakwater, but were intercepted by the Guardia Civil and Moroccan forces. No injuries were reported, and the migrants were returned to Morocco, as confirmed by the Spanish government delegation in Ceuta.
The earlier tragedy on August 1 was triggered by a false rumor spread on social media claiming that the border would be temporarily opened. Hundreds of migrants rushed to the border, leading to a crush that killed two people and injured dozens. Spanish and Moroccan authorities have since increased patrols and called for better cooperation to prevent such incidents.
Local NGOs have urged both governments to address the root causes of migration and to ensure the safety of migrants at the border. The European Union has also expressed concern and offered assistance to manage the situation.
