Spanish intelligence services issued warnings about social media campaigns advocating for a mass migrant crossing into Ceuta on the day before tens of thousands of people entered the territory. These revelations come from newly declassified government documents, released amid accusations that the Spanish government did not fully disclose information regarding the migrant influx.

On July 29, Spain's National Intelligence Service (CNI) informed both Moroccan and Ceuta authorities about social media groups actively encouraging migrants to attempt a crossing into the Spanish exclave the following day. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had previously stated that the events of July 30 were unpredictable, but opposition parties are now citing these documents to argue that the government misled the public.

The CNI's warning, detailed in a note to Moroccan intelligence, identified WhatsApp and Facebook groups that were promoting an attempt to reach Ceuta on July 30, specifying both swimming and crossing via the border fence. The messages indicated that approximately 180,000 individuals were receiving this information, with one explicitly stating that July 30, a public holiday, would be an opportune time due to the authorities being occupied with celebrations.

These declassified documents, part of a larger collection of over 40 security-related papers concerning the Ceuta crossing, were released following significant pressure on Prime Minister Sánchez regarding his administration's handling of the crisis. Allegations have also surfaced suggesting Morocco may have played a role in facilitating the crossings, though Sánchez has maintained that there is no evidence to support this claim.

At least 72,000 migrants entered Ceuta from Morocco on July 30 and 31, with the majority swimming around the border fence. Tragically, around 100 people are reported to have died during these crossings, according to figures from Ceuta's mayor. While most migrants have since been returned to Morocco, an estimated 5,000 remain in temporary camps or are sleeping on the streets and beaches, contributing to unrest in the North African Spanish city.

Opposition politicians have seized upon the released documents, asserting they contradict the government's previous statements. Ester Muñoz of the People's Party stated that the government possessed the information and bore direct responsibility for the "invasion" and the deaths. Jorge Buxadé of the far-right Vox party suggested on social media that Prime Minister Sánchez and others should face legal proceedings for treason and security crimes.

Despite the opposition's claims, the government has maintained its position that its actions were based on the information available at the time. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated he was unaware of any reports that could have predicted the scale of the events on July 30. A government spokesperson reiterated that the CNI acted responsibly by sharing intelligence with relevant authorities.

The situation in Ceuta has led to significant local concern, with some residents reportedly destroying shelters and obstructing aid to migrants. The ongoing presence of thousands of migrants continues to strain resources and create social tensions within the autonomous Spanish city.