Recent Expulsions of Migrants from Ceuta Due to Criminal Activities

In a significant move, Spain's Interior Minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, announced the expulsion of over 100 migrants from the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, primarily due to their involvement in criminal activities. This decision follows a surge in migration attempts that occurred in late July, during which authorities recorded alarming statistics, including 17 sexual assaults, of which seven were classified as rape. Marlaska revealed these troubling figures during a session before the Interior Committee of the Spanish Congress of Deputies on August 28, emphasizing the vulnerable status of the victims, predominantly women. However, he refrained from disclosing additional specifics about the incidents.

The situation has drawn further attention from Spanish Attorney General Teresa Permato, who stated that the authorities had documented approximately 16 sexual assaults affecting 17 victims, with a notable majority being underage girls. In response to the escalating crime rates, Marlaska outlined the legal framework for these expulsions, which can be enacted either through a fast-tracked trial process or an administrative procedure under Spain's immigration laws. The latter has already facilitated the expulsion of more than 100 individuals, contingent upon judicial approval when a quick trial is not conducted.

Impact of the Migrant Influx and Cooperation with Moroccan Authorities

The influx of migrants has significantly altered the demographic landscape of Ceuta, with the number of registered minors soaring from nearly 800 to about 1,500 among the total of 5,000 migrants currently present in the city. Minister Marlaska praised the cooperation from Moroccan authorities, who have reportedly intercepted over 2,700 illegal sea departures aimed at reaching the Spanish coastline this year alone. In light of these developments, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has categorically denied any responsibility on the part of Moroccan authorities concerning the recent surge in migrant arrivals. During an interview with Cadena SER radio, Sanchez asserted that no intelligence reports suggest the involvement of Moroccan officials in orchestrating the crisis, thereby alleviating any concern regarding potential complicity.

As reported by en.hespress.com.