Madrid (Web Desk): Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta is facing a growing crisis following an unprecedented influx of migrants, placing local and national authorities under intense pressure. Officials said a large number of people crossed the border into the territory, significantly straining available resources.
Authorities in Ceuta described the situation as unsustainable, saying the number of new arrivals is comparable to a substantial share of the city's population. Spain's Interior Ministry confirmed that the process of returning thousands of migrants has already begun.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visited Ceuta and described the situation as serious, stating that those who entered the territory illegally would be returned to Morocco as quickly as possible.
He also accused human smuggling networks of exploiting false information to encourage people to make the journey.
Officials added that security has been further tightened in both Ceuta and the neighboring enclave of Melilla, with additional personnel deployed to strengthen border surveillance.
European Union leaders have also voiced concern over the situation and reaffirmed their support for Spain in addressing the crisis.