MADRID – Thousands of migrants living on the beaches of North African city of Ceuta in Spain were forcibly driven away by riot police on Friday. Police have moved the migrants to makeshift shelters and processing facilities at the port in Ceuta.
Approximately 150 riot police descended on the beach, forcing dozens of migrants living in roadside shelters to leave. Police fired warning shots with rubber bullets and used batons to break through barricades during moments of palpable tension.
What Occurred During the Operation?
Friday’s operation was tense from the start as tactical units approached the beachfront encampment. Although most residents left without resistance, there was sporadic pushback during other instances when police attempted to clear the beachheads.
Authorities fenced off the access points to the beaches, where authorities guided small groups onto organized shuttles heading for the port compound in Ceuta. Officials say the operation was brought about by the dire public health and safety situations caused by the years-long illegal camping.
What Will Happen to Migrants now?
Once at the port complex, migrants are being documented, screened, and processed by officials. European border agents and Spanish humanitarian organizations are present to receive migrants’ asylum applications and help them settle into the makeshift shelter.
This operation is a key development as Spain seeks to curtail migration flows at its North African border while bettering the living conditions in the border city of Ceuta.
