About 49,000 migrants have crossed into Spain's North African territory of Ceuta from Morocco in the last 24 hours via land and sea, officials estimate. This sudden influx of people has put a strain on the local authorities, who are struggling to cope with the sheer numbers.
Ceuta Overwhelmed by Migrant Surge
Ceuta, a city of around 83,600 residents, has seen its population swell with thousands of migrants arriving on its shores. Local officials had appealed to Madrid for help after a recent rise in attempted crossings, but there were chaotic scenes on Thursday as border controls apparently broke down. The number of migrants who entered into Ceuta in the last day or so could be more than half of the city's population.
Rise in Attempted Crossings Amid Diplomatic Tensions
The sudden influx of people on Thursday followed several days with an increase in arrivals swimming into Ceuta. It appears that word of their success spread quickly, prompting more migrants to attempt the crossing. This surge in arrivals comes amid diplomatic tensions between Spain and Morocco, with the Western Sahara dispute flaring up again recently.
Spanish Response and International Reactions
Spain's interior ministry has said it is working with Morocco to ensure the return of all who crossed illegally into its territory "as soon as possible". The Spanish prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, is set to visit Ceuta later on Friday. Italy's prime minister has also commented on the situation, calling the images from Ceuta "shocking" and suggesting that Italy may consider suspending the Schengen zone agreement with Spain on free movement.
Border Collapse and Clashes Between Migrants and Police
Local media reported clashes between migrants and police along the border overnight, with some migrants attempting to break through the border fence. A Spanish official described the border as being in "total collapse". The situation remains chaotic, with many migrants stuck in Ceuta, unable to reach the Spanish mainland.
The Spanish foreign minister, José Manuel Albares, has summoned the Italian ambassador to Madrid on Friday, condemning Italy's prime minister for her comments on the situation. The Schengen Area is a system of open borders spanning 29 European countries, and the situation in Ceuta raises questions about the effectiveness of this system in the face of large-scale migration.
Source: Joy Online
