Thousands of migrants in Ceuta on Friday took to the streets and ran towards the new camp designated for them. This incident occurred as authorities attempted to move migrants from the beaches to the port area.
During this transfer, the police faced a large crowd trying to secure a spot in the new camp after weeks of living on the beaches. Officials have announced that tents have been prepared in this new camp for 1,700 people.
Clashes and Challenges
Images and videos released show people running in the streets towards the new camp, chanting and celebrating as they ran. However, this excitement soon turned into clashes between migrants and the police. Riot control units and national police were forced to intervene, with reports indicating the use of tear gas to control the situation.
This situation arose after tens of thousands of migrants surged from the Moroccan border into Ceuta in late July. While most returned to their homeland, about 13,000 remain there, many of whom are sleeping on the beaches of this territory.
Concerns and Criticisms
Local officials have expressed concern over the chaotic situation and security risks. A report has emerged detailing a significant increase in crimes, particularly sexual assaults, including against children. The head of the Ceuta prosecutor's office, Silvia Rojas, has stated that such crimes are sharply on the rise.
Meanwhile, health conditions in temporary camps are very poor, and recently a Moroccan teenager has contracted the monkeypox virus and is receiving treatment. Additionally, at least five cases of tuberculosis have been observed among the migrants.
The Spanish government continues to transfer migrants despite local officials' opposition. This comes as Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister of Spain, faces severe criticism. He believes the government has not been able to manage this crisis and has asked the residents of Ceuta to be patient.
In recent days, widespread protests have occurred in Spain due to the influx of migrants, and in some cases, violence between migrants and local residents has also erupted. According to one expert, the situation in Ceuta is severely deteriorating, and the likelihood of a disaster is merely a matter of time.
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