Mass Exodus of Migrants from Ceuta Amidst Overwhelming Conditions

In a dramatic turn of events, thousands of the over 50,000 migrants who irregularly entered Ceuta have begun their return to Morocco this Friday morning, after realizing that the autonomous city was unable to provide necessary support. By 6 PM, official reports indicated that more than 48,300 migrants had crossed back into Morocco, following a chaotic influx that saw 50,000 entries recorded earlier that day. The El Tarajal border point, which served as the entryway for many, has now become a dual-purpose exit route as individuals seek to return to their home country, having found no shelter or food options available to them.

As migrants made their way back, the atmosphere at the border was charged with contrasting emotions, with shouts of “f*** Morocco” from the new arrivals clashing with resigned farewells of “see you later, Spain” from those choosing to leave. Throughout the morning, groups of migrants who had settled in parks and public spaces in the city began moving towards the border, transitioning from initial joy to palpable frustration.

Personal Stories Amidst the Crisis

Amina, one of the few women who navigated through the throng of men, expressed her reluctance to be photographed, having come to terms with the reality of returning to a country she believes holds no future for her. A seasoned athlete, she found swimming across the border a manageable feat, yet after spending the night outdoors due to the overcrowding at the CETI (Temporary Immigrant Center), she quickly realized that accessing supermarkets for food was impossible amid panic over potential looting, which prompted shopkeepers to shutter their businesses.

The flow of individuals returning to Morocco has been incessant, with the Interior Ministry reporting a staggering rate of 150 people leaving Ceuta every minute. Military personnel stationed in the area have been guiding them to the exit. Among those returning is Karim, who recently turned 18. Despite his limited Spanish, a mobile translator helped him convey feelings of betrayal, as he had been convinced of an easy transition to Spain. He was not alone; many others in his group, donned in Spanish national jerseys, had received enticing messages via WhatsApp encouraging them to cross the porous border. Now, they embark on what promises to be a lengthy journey back home.

According to the Interior Ministry, all departures are voluntary, with both National Police and Civil Guard officers deployed to manage traffic and assist migrants with queries, maintaining order without resorting to violence. However, social media has circulated videos of unrest in local shops, adding to the tense atmosphere. Mahir, a minor who had anticipated an easier passage to the mainland, lamented that he had hoped to contact his family once he crossed the Strait. Accepting that this attempt was unsuccessful, he remains resolute, stating that he will undoubtedly try again, as the prospects in his home country offer neither jobs nor financial stability.

As reported by lavanguardia.com.