On September 15, 2024, Moroccan security forces successfully thwarted a mass migration attempt at the barbed-wire fence near Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in Northern Morocco.

The day, referred to as 'The Promised Day,' saw social media campaigns encouraging mass illegal crossings, which led to increased gatherings at the border.

Dozens of migrants, primarily young Moroccans and some sub-Saharan Africans, gathered in Fnideq, where they attempted to storm the border fence, throwing stones at security forces.

Following the attempted crossings, Moroccan law enforcement deported 2,400 individuals suspected of planning illegal migration within three days.

Despite heavy police presence, hundreds of young Moroccans reached Fnideq but were apprehended and returned to their hometowns.

Increased surveillance along Morocco's northern borders has pushed many migrants to attempt riskier sea crossings to the Canary Islands, which have seen a significant rise in arrivals this year.

In 2023, Morocco's Interior Ministry reported preventing over 75,000 attempts at irregular migration, reflecting a six percent increase from the previous year.

Video footage captured the chaotic scene as migrants rushed towards the border, only to be met with a strong response from local security forces.

In light of rising migration numbers, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called for improved cooperation with African nations on migration issues.

Ceuta and Melilla are critical entry points from Africa into the European Union, frequently targeted by migrants seeking a better life in Europe.

In response to the attempted crossings, Moroccan authorities deployed additional personnel to the border area, including land and sea patrols.

Despite the Moroccan government's efforts to reinforce security measures at the border, the determination of migrants to cross remains high.