Moroccan Resident Challenges Border Seizure of Olive Oil in Melilla

The man claims that the current regulations allow the transport of such a quantity of olive oil, provided that it is not intended for commercial use. He relies in particular on circular IM/1/2022, which sets the limit at 10 kilos per vehicle, and on Order PJC/756/2024, which defines the competences of the Ministries of Agriculture and Health in the control of food goods at the borders, reports El faro de Melilla.

On July 7, this resident of Melilla was returning from Morocco with his family, where they had bought fruits, vegetables and 11.5 kilos of olive oil produced by relatives. Upon arrival at the Guardia Civil checkpoint, the agents told them that the amount of oil exceeded the authorized limit of 5 liters. They then had to choose between turning back or abandoning part of their oil.

Convinced that he is within his rights, he filed a complaint, arguing that the oil was not intended for sale. The authorities’ response was that the oil did not meet health standards. Dissatisfied, he also contacted the Government Delegation, without getting a response.

Faced with this silence, he decided to share his experience on social networks, where his story has generated many reactions. Several residents of Melilla have contacted him to report similar situations. He even posted a complaint model online to help other people facing this problem.

Determined to assert his rights, he now plans to file a complaint with the prosecutor’s office for abuse of power. He is currently checking whether circular IM/1/2022 is still in force.