Ceuta: A major border crisis erupted in the small Spanish region of Ceuta on Thursday when thousands of migrants from Morocco simultaneously crossed the border into Spanish territory. At least 60 people are reported to have died in the last few days in the chaos of migrants trying to enter Spain from this Muslim country. The situation became so bad that the Spanish government decided to deploy the army to restore order at the border. After the incident, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced that he would visit Ceuta on Friday along with Home Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska.
How did migrants enter Spain from Morocco?
Ceuta is a small region of Spain located on the coast of North Africa. It is surrounded by Morocco, but administratively it is part of Spain. Therefore, anyone arriving here reaches the border of the European Union. People from many African countries try to reach here in the hope of better employment, a safer life and escaping violence. On Thursday morning, a large number of people suddenly started crossing the border from the Moroccan side. Many reached the Spanish streets on foot via the breakwater of Tarajal beach. Most of them were young men, but women and families with small children were also included in this crowd.
Why did the government have to send the army to Ceuta?
The Ceuta administration had requested additional security forces and troops from the central government in Madrid. Following this, the Spanish government announced that the army would be sent to assist the Civil Guard to restore security in the city. Citing national security concerns, Ceuta’s regional chief, Juan Jesus Vivas, also demanded a national emergency be declared. He stated that additional police and military were needed to secure the border and ensure the safety of citizens. The Spanish Interior Ministry rejected his request, stating,