Spain denies Moroccan role in Ceuta migrant surge

The Spanish government has ruled out Morocco's involvement in the recent influx of migrants into Ceuta, according to Spanish government sources. They noted that relations with the Kingdom of Morocco remain positive, reported EFE.

The government sources denied any connection between the current situation and the events of May 2021, when more than 8,000 people entered irregularly during a diplomatic crisis with Rabat. They highlighted the good cooperation in combating migration and the positive atmosphere characterizing relations with Morocco, especially following Spain's support for the Moroccan autonomy initiative for the Sahara in March 2022.

The government delegate in Ceuta, Cristina Perez, acknowledged a «severe» migration pressure on the city, with approximately 500 people from Morocco and Algeria attempting to enter daily. Just last Sunday, there was an attempted entry of 1,500 people. The number of daily repatriations ranges from 150 to 200.

The president of Ceuta, Juan Jesús Vivas, admitted that the city's annual budget for caring for minors has been exhausted due to the recent increase in arrivals. While acknowledging Morocco's cooperation in border control, he emphasized the need for «additional diplomatic measures to better manage the borders, benefiting both countries».

On Tuesday, the main association of Civil Guard officers, Jucil, called on Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska Gómez to urgently visit Morocco to discuss the ongoing influx of migrants swimming from Morocco to the Ceuta coast.

The organization noted that the influx, which has been ongoing for several days, exceeds the capabilities of the Civil Guard. «It is essential for the government to take responsibility and request Moroccan authorities to cooperate in halting this intolerable situation», emphasized Jucil spokesperson Mila Civico.