A deadly surge of migrants to Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta was triggered by viral online rumours suggesting the border with Morocco was open.
The movement began with Instagram posts, including one from an account called Haraga Ceuta, claiming the border would open. This was followed by Facebook users tracking coastguard patrols and TikTok videos showing swimming routes. These social media signals convinced thousands of Moroccans that Europe was suddenly within reach.
Within hours, young people started heading to the border, with packed buses arriving in the Moroccan city of Fnideq near Ceuta. By the time authorities responded, approximately 72,000 people had crossed into Ceuta over a few days, marking the largest migration surge between Morocco and Spain in years.
Tragically, more than 80 migrants died on both sides of the border, including those who drowned and others killed in a stampede, according to authorities. Nearly all surviving migrants have since returned, but the consequences of the event continue to be felt.
In the northern Moroccan city of Larache, about 150 kilometers from Ceuta, three friends watched the viral Instagram video that sparked the rush.
Sources
South China Morning Post World, Associated Press
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