In brief
Hundreds of individuals have crossed from Morocco into Ceuta over the past week, according to local authorities. The surge has overwhelmed local infrastructure and prompted calls for national intervention. Reports range from 2000 to 3000 arrivals, with many unaccompanied minors. Spain’s interior minister is slated to visit, while security measures have intensified amid diplomatic tensions with Morocco.
Hundreds of migrants have entered Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta from Morocco over the past week, according to the territory's leader.
Juan Jesús Vivas said the influx overstretches resources and urged the Spanish government to intervene. Spain's Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska is expected to visit this Friday, Reuters reports.
Footage showed migrants swimming and using inflatable rings and other flotation devices to cross the Strait of Gibraltar, while others ran through a gate in the border fence.
The enclave, on Morocco's northern coast, has long been a focal point for migrants hoping to reach Europe.
Reports vary – from hundreds to thousands. Spanish media estimated between 2000 and 3000 people entered on Thursday; the Guardia Civil has not confirmed the figure. RTVE reported "hundreds" crossed on that day and says more than 1500 mainly young Moroccan migrants have reached Ceuta in the past two weeks.
Vivas added that 60 bodies were recovered at sea in recent months. He warned of a humanitarian and security emergency, noting reception centres for unaccompanied minors are operating at several times their intended capacity.
The surge echoes a 2021 incident when around 8000 people entered Ceuta over a few days, heightening diplomatic tensions with Morocco.
Ceuta and its neighbor Melilla represent the EU's only land border with Africa. Spanish authorities have bolstered security around the enclaves via increased surveillance, barrier reinforcement and better bilateral ties with Morocco, but crossings continue.
