Algerian authorities have handed over 33 Moroccan nationals to Morocco through the Zouj Bghal border crossing. The handover, which took place on Wednesday, included one minor and involved young Moroccans who had been seeking to migrate. The Association for Assistance to Migrants in Vulnerable Situations in Oujda confirmed the handover.
The returnees come from various cities and provinces in Morocco, including Ksar El Kebir, Nador, Settat, Oujda, Fez, Berkane, Taounate, Casablanca, Taza, Errachidia, Tinghir, Tetouan, and Jerada. Families were waiting to receive their relatives upon their return, according to the association. The organization continues to follow cases involving Moroccans who have been detained, reported missing, or have died abroad.
The Association for Assistance to Migrants in Vulnerable Situations in Oujda provides assistance to families by receiving requests for help, monitoring court proceedings, and helping families obtain documents needed to confirm the identities of those concerned. The association also monitors cases involving Moroccan nationals held or detained in Libya, and has reported an increase in the number of families contacting it for help.
The handover took place against the backdrop of strained relations between Morocco and Algeria. The two countries have not had diplomatic relations since 2021, and their land border has remained closed for decades. The Zouj Bghal crossing is one of the points used for the return of Moroccan nationals from Algeria.
Moroccan nationals attempting to reach Europe through irregular migration routes can face detention or legal proceedings in transit countries. Rights groups and migrant assistance organizations have repeatedly called for greater support for families trying to locate relatives who have gone missing or been detained during migration journeys.
The latest handover is part of the wider effort by organizations to help families establish the whereabouts of their relatives. The Association for Assistance to Migrants in Vulnerable Situations in Oujda continues to work on cases involving Moroccans who have been detained or reported missing abroad. The organization also provides support to families who have lost loved ones during migration journeys.
The return of the 33 Moroccan nationals highlights the ongoing issue of migration between Morocco and Algeria. The two countries have a complex relationship, with tensions often arising over issues such as migration and border control. The handover demonstrates the ongoing efforts of organizations to support migrants and their families.
Key points
- Algerian authorities handed over 33 Moroccan nationals to Morocco through the Zouj Bghal border crossing.
- The handover took place amid strained relations between Morocco and Algeria.
- The Association for Assistance to Migrants in Vulnerable Situations in Oujda continues to support families affected by migration.
