Rising Violence in Ceuta Following Migrant Influx
In the aftermath of a massive influx of migrants, with over 72,000 initially arriving, several thousand remain in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. Recently, Spanish soldiers have found themselves under attack from the remaining migrants, who have resorted to throwing stones. Additionally, violence has also erupted from local residents in Ceuta this week, highlighting the escalating tensions in the region.
Almost a month after the overwhelming migrant surge, reports indicate that Spanish soldiers were targeted once again, with incidents of stone-throwing occurring. A police spokesperson confirmed that four Moroccan individuals were arrested following one such attack on a Saturday, during which a soldier sustained injuries while pursuing the assailants. This marks the second instance of such violent confrontations within just a few days.
Earlier in the week, approximately 70 migrants were reported to have hurled stones at a Spanish military vehicle, resulting in injuries to a soldier and the arrest of twelve Moroccans. Local media reports indicate that eleven of those arrested have since been deported back to Morocco. Furthermore, clashes erupted in Ceuta on the same day between police and demonstrators advocating for the departure of the remaining migrants, with personal belongings set ablaze on a beach that has been used as a makeshift camp by the migrants.
On July 30 and 31, a staggering number of over 72,000 individuals, predominantly from Morocco, crossed into Ceuta, either by foot or swimming. While many quickly returned or were forcibly sent back, estimates from the Spanish central government suggest that around 5,000 migrants still reside in the enclave, whereas local authorities believe the number could be as high as 10,000.
Official reports indicate that at least 91 people lost their lives during this mass migration event, with 80 fatalities occurring on the Spanish side and 11 on the Moroccan side. However, Moroccan non-governmental organizations claim the death toll exceeds 141, with numerous individuals reported missing.
In response to this humanitarian crisis, Spain is striving to expedite the processing of the remaining migrants and has requested additional assistance from the European Union through Frontex, Europol, and the EU Asylum Agency. EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner emphasized that the priority remains on the swift repatriation of all individuals illegally present in Ceuta.
As reported by audimax.de.
