Spanish authorities have moved about 1,700 migrants from beaches in the North African enclave of Ceuta to a newly established temporary accommodation centre following a major operation to clear the area.
The operation, which began early Friday, September 18, involved Spanish riot police and military personnel as authorities moved migrants who had been sleeping in makeshift camps along the beaches.
Spain estimates that around 10,000 migrants remain in Ceuta after more than 72,000 people entered the territory from Morocco during an unprecedented influx in late July. Most of those who entered have since left the enclave.
The newly established facility, located within the port area, has capacity for about 1,700 adult men. Children and other minors are being accommodated separately.
The operation, however, was marked by tension as large numbers of migrants competed for the limited spaces available at the temporary facility.
Spanish police reportedly fired rubber bullets into the air and used batons during moments of disorder before the situation was brought under control.
According to reports, around 3,000 migrants could not be accommodated at the new facility and returned to the beaches, where they set up makeshift shelters.
Aid organisations have criticised the authorities for failing to provide enough accommodation for the number of migrants still sleeping outdoors. One humanitarian organisation estimated that about 4,000 people remained on beaches and pavements following the operation.
The latest facility is part of Spain’s wider effort to manage the unprecedented migration pressure facing Ceuta.
The Spanish government had previously said it was expanding temporary accommodation and relocating migrants from public areas. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said earlier this month that thousands of migrants had already been relocated or returned, with further transfers planned.
The situation has placed significant pressure on Ceuta, a small Spanish territory bordering Morocco, while humanitarian organisations have called for adequate shelter and protection for migrants, particularly children and other vulnerable groups.
Authorities are continuing efforts to accommodate those remaining without shelter as the migration crisis in the enclave continues.
