Rabat: Moroccan public authorities have taken all the necessary measures to thwart any illegal crossing attempt towards the cities of Sebta and Mellilia, and to intercept any individual looking to participate, said on Wednesday in Rabat the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Interior, Rachid El Khalfi.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, El Khalfi pointed out that the Ministry of Interior has detected in recent days the spread of anonymous posts and messages on certain social media platforms inciting the organization of illegal group crossing attempts towards Sebta and Mellilia. These attempts pose serious risks to personal security and aim to weaponize migration issues in acts of incitement, which are criminalized by law.

In response to these developments, the Ministry of Interior emphasizes that public authorities are closely monitoring the situation. All necessary measures have been taken to thwart illegal crossing attempts and intercept any participants. Legal procedures will be initiated against indi
viduals proven to be involved in such acts, including those spreading inciting messages on social media.

El Khalfi added that authorities have arrested several individuals suspected of involvement in acts of incitement. These individuals are undergoing legal investigation under the supervision of the relevant public prosecutor’s office.

The Ministry highlights that the operational readiness of the security services is ongoing and is part of a continuous monitoring system, particularly in areas adjacent to the Sebta and Mellilia crossings. This system is regularly reinforced and adapted to respond to situational developments and the nature of identified risks.

The Ministry reaffirms that the fight against irregular migration is conducted within the framework of the law and the protection of individuals’ safety. It urges everyone to be cautious and responsible, avoiding deceptive calls that could endanger lives.

Furthermore, the Ministry stresses that combating irregular migration and human trafficking requ
ires shared responsibility and commitment from various parties. In this context, the Ministry calls on Spanish authorities to expedite the return of unaccompanied minors currently in Sebta to their families in Morocco, which is crucial for safeguarding the minors’ best interests and overcoming administrative and judicial obstacles.

Recognizing the challenges of irregular migration as a shared responsibility, the Ministry reaffirms the importance of effective cooperation and the immediate return mechanism, which has shown positive results in addressing challenges and enhancing field operations.

The Ministry of Interior asserts that Moroccan authorities will continue to fulfill their obligations with firmness and responsibility. They aim to ensure public order, safety, and property protection while combating irregular migration and human trafficking networks, maintaining vigilance, operational readiness, and continuous coordination to address various risks in strict compliance with the law, concluded El Khalf
i.