More than 800 migrants have been transferred to a new shelter in Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta after spending weeks in makeshift camps, on streets and near beaches. The relocation took place on Sunday, September 13, under police escort.
The migrants walked from the Loma Colmenar area to the Los Rosales reception centre, carrying their personal belongings as authorities moved them into more organised accommodation.
The transfer comes after a major increase in migrant arrivals from Morocco in late July, placing significant pressure on Ceuta’s limited reception facilities.
Local authorities say more than 10,000 migrants, including unaccompanied minors, remain stranded in the enclave. Many have been living in difficult conditions while waiting for accommodation and decisions on their status.
Ceuta, which borders Morocco, has long faced pressure from irregular migration because of its position on the European Union’s southern frontier.
The mass relocation is aimed at easing overcrowding and providing migrants with safer shelter. However, the large number of people still awaiting accommodation means the migration crisis remains a major challenge for Ceuta and Spanish authorities.
