Social media rumors trigger mass migration attempt to Spanish enclave of Ceuta

Social media posts on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok suggesting that the border between Morocco and the Spanish enclave of Ceuta was open sparked a sudden surge of migrants from northern Morocco. Within hours, buses, trains and taxis filled with young people heading for the coastal city of Fnideq, the usual departure point for the roughly 3-mile swim across the breakwater.

Authorities estimate that about 60,000 people reached Ceuta over a few days, the largest influx in years. At least 72 migrants died on the Spanish side and 11 on the Moroccan side, many drowning or being crushed in the chaotic scramble at the breakwater. Most survivors were later returned to Morocco after being expelled or choosing to leave due to lack of shelter, food and water.

"I saw online that the border was open, and I decided to go," said 17-year-old Omar Danbor of Fnideq.

The rumors originated from accounts such as "Haraga Ceuta" on Instagram, which claimed the border would be open, and a TikTok video that mapped a swimming route. Facebook groups shared vessel-tracking screenshots and advice on avoiding coast-guard patrols. The source of the misinformation remains unclear; several accounts were deleted after the crossings.

Moroccan and Spanish officials blamed the spread of false information and human-smuggling networks for the episode, though many migrants interviewed said they acted on their own initiative. "No one smuggled me there. I wanted to go of my own free will," said one migrant.

Experts noted that some migrants misinterpreted recent Spanish immigration measures, mistakenly believing they would be granted legal status upon arrival. The incident highlights the influence of digital platforms on migration dynamics and the challenges faced by authorities on both sides of the border.