Migrants Swim to Spanish Enclaves: Moroccan Athletes Among Those Seeking a New Life

The North Observatory for Human Rights has reported a recent increase in irregular migration towards Spain, specifically mentioning Moroccan athletes who have attempted to reach the Spanish enclaves of Melilla and Ceuta. The organization states that approximately 15 Moroccan migrants successfully entered Melilla, highlighting a trend of migrants, including unaccompanied minors, choosing to swim to Ceuta as a means of crossing the border. The report observes a shift from individual swimming attempts to group crossings, facilitated by the presence of fog which impedes security monitoring along the maritime borders. The observatory notes that a significant number of unaccompanied minors have attempted to reach Ceuta from the shores of Fnideq, undertaking a swim of over 10 kilometers that can take up to 15 hours. The report indicates that between 1,200 and 1,300 irregular migrants, primarily young men between the ages of 15 and 24, have successfully reached Ceuta, with 90% entering via the maritime border with Fnideq, 5% via the maritime border with Belyounech, and 5% via the border fence.