Rabat- Juan José Imbroda, the Spanish Mayor of Melilla, has praised Moroccan authorities for their demonstrated “capacity to prevent massive migrant entries when they have the will.”
In a recent interview with Radio Canal Sur, reported by Europe Press, Imbroda addressed the recent arrests made by Moroccan authorities in response to mass irregular migration attempts to cross the borders of Ceuta and Melilla.
“When Morocco decides to take action, it can effectively manage migration, as evidenced by recent operations in Ceuta and Melilla,” Imbroda commented.
The mayor emphasized the importance of maintaining stable relations between Madrid and Rabat, stating, “Spain hopes to continue fostering excellent friendly relations with Morocco. However, it is crucial that Morocco also reciprocates to maintain these ties.”
He further highlighted Morocco’s responsibilities, noting, “Morocco must meet its obligations. If it is tasked with curbing illegal immigration, it must fulfill that duty.”
Imbroda’s remarks come in the context of recent measures by Moroccan authorities to address irregular migration attempts, underscoring the need for ongoing collaboration between Spain and Morocco in managing this challenge.
On Saturday night, northern Moroccan cities, particularly Fnideq, experienced an unprecedented scene as hundreds of young Moroccans clashed with police forces.
Viral videos online show large groups of young people engaging in violent confrontations with Moroccan police, driven by widespread calls for a mass irregular migration attempt toward the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.
Despite the deployment of security units throughout Fnideq, the situation escalated. Footage captured scenes of riots and vandalism, including attacks on police vehicles.
Moroccan authorities have detained a total of 518 migrants linked to mass migration incitement, comprising 164 Algerians, 318 individuals from sub-Saharan Africa, and 37 from Tunisia and Asia.
Additionally, the operation led to the arrest of 3,795 Moroccan adults and 141 minors.
