Hundreds of migrants swim from Morocco to Spanish enclave of Ceuta

Spanish authorities stated on Wednesday that hundreds of migrants swam from Morocco in an attempt to reach the territory of Ceuta. Border security forces were overwhelmed by the surge, which they did not anticipate. "In the last few days, more than 1,500 migrants, including adults and minors, have reached Ceuta by sea,” said Juan Jesus Vivas, the leader of Ceuta's government. "The reception centers are collapsed and saturated."

“

In the last few days, more than 1,500 migrants, including adults and minors, have reached Ceuta by sea. The reception centers are collapsed and saturated.

Spain's Civil Guard, maritime Rescue Services, and the Red Cross reportedly rescued approximately 117 migrants from the water. Moroccan authorities also intercepted dozens of migrants attempting to reach Spanish waters. Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska described the situation as "extraordinary, exceptional" and stated that authorities are managing it with existing deployed means. He commended Moroccan authorities for their close and loyal cooperation.

“

we are dealing with it with the means that we already have deployed there permanently.

The swimmers were primarily Moroccans, with a small number of Algerians who had been residing in Morocco. This event occurs after a Spanish Supreme Court ruling earlier this month that prevents migrants arriving by sea from being immediately pushed back across the border without due process, a measure previously applicable to land crossings. However, activists doubt that average Moroccans would be aware of this ruling, discounting it as a direct cause for the crossings. Migrant arrivals in Spain via Ceuta and Melilla have decreased this year, with many opting for alternative routes like the Canary Islands.

“

we are facing "an extraordinary, exceptional situation."