Following calls on social media in Morocco for mass border crossings into Ceuta and Melilla the Government Delegate in Melilla, Sabrina Moh, urged residents on Tuesday to remain calm and act sensibly. She also stressed that security measures in the Spanish enclave had been stepped up for Wednesday, 23 September.
Moh noted that around 1,300 members of the state security forces are currently deployed in Melilla, comprising the regular units stationed there and additional reinforcements sent in. The focus is on the National Police and the Guardia Civil, whose presence has been increased at key locations. According to the Delegación del Gobierno authorities in Melilla are coordinating their approach to maintain public order and prevent possible uncontrolled border crossings.
According to media reports, the latest online calls from Morocco are aimed at coordinating entry on Wednesday. Europa Press reports that these mobilisation calls are timed to coincide with the election date scheduled for 23 September in Morocco. Spanish officials reaffirm that they are monitoring the situation closely and are in constant coordination with the security forces.
In parallel, Melilla City Council asked the government delegation for ongoing, specific information about the situation and operational plans, so that it could provide residents with a transparent assessment of local risks. The city government said this was in the public interest and would support reliable, up-to-date communication.
In recent weeks, there have been repeated attempts to cross the border illegally, or corresponding announcements on social media. In this context, the Ministry of the Interior and the Delegación del Gobierno point to preventive measures: additional personnel, a visible presence and closer coordination between agencies. Officially, the aim is to prevent tensions from arising and to respond in an orderly manner if necessary.
The figures Moh cited for the strength of the security forces and her comments on the increased presence are drawn from statements by the Government Delegation and consistent reports by news agencies. The authorities’ statements about expected developments should be understood as assessments of the situation and statements of intent; they do not predict what will actually happen on Wednesday.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).