The high-speed ferry operating the Motril–Melilla route denied boarding to dozens of Moroccan nationals on the night of 31 July–1 August after port authorities received an urgent order to “prioritise residents and Spanish citizens.” According to Guardia Civil sources cited by Agencia EFE, the measure is connected to the closure of the Beni Enzar land crossing and aims to prevent the sea route from becoming an alternative pathway during the Ceuta emergency. Passengers without Spanish documents or proof of residency in Melilla were offered free rebooking via Algeciras, but many complained of having spent hours in the terminal before learning of the restriction. Freight traffic was not affected, yet logistics operators fear that, if the rule is extended, perishables could face delays because mixed cargo vessels carry both trucks and foot passengers. The incident highlights the fragility of Spain’s maritime mobility corridors with its North-African enclaves, which are vital for seasonal workers, military personnel and supply chains. Companies that rotate staff through Melilla’s air-sea gateway should check booking conditions daily; carriers may alter acceptance criteria with little notice. Lawyers note that limiting passage based on nationality raises questions under Spain’s Equal Treatment Act, although the government argues the move is temporary and grounded in public-order exceptions allowed by EU law. Whether the restriction will remain once the Ceuta situation stabilises is unclear; a review is scheduled for 5 August. For now, business travellers to Melilla should carry proof of accommodation or work orders, and consider routing through Málaga or Madrid if time-critical.
Source: Diario AS
