Spain Moves Hundreds of Migrants from Ceuta Shores to New Port Camp

Spanish police on Friday initiated a significant operation to transfer hundreds of migrants from Ceuta's beaches to a new reception center located in the Spanish enclave's port area. Security forces encountered difficulties managing crowds of migrants who jostled to secure space in the newly established camp, following weeks of sleeping rough on the beaches. The facility is set to accommodate 1,700 people. The Ceuta enclave saw disturbances during the pre-dawn transfer. Police escorted migrants on foot for over two kilometers from camps on Trampoline and Benitez beaches to the port early Friday. Officers began collecting migrants at 6:30 AM local time (04:30 GMT). A Spanish government official in Ceuta stated the port's "tent city" is furnished with bathrooms and beds, aimed at enhancing living conditions. Thousands of migrants crossed into Spanish Ceuta from Morocco in late July. Most have since returned, yet thousands remain, many still sleeping outdoors on beaches. Ceuta authorities estimate some 13,000 migrants remain in the 18.5-square-kilometer enclave; the central government suggests a lower number. The Spanish government proceeded with the operation despite objections from conservative local authorities. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez faced criticism for his crisis management and a dispute with Italy over temporary border controls.