Speaking from Ceuta on 14 October, Minister for Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory Ángel Víctor Torres reported steady progress in normalising the situation created by the 30–31 July mass crossing from Morocco. According to Torres, 11,225 people have chosen assisted voluntary return while 531 have been expelled for criminal or public-order reasons, bringing total departures to 11,756. The minister underlined that the government’s priority is to move the remaining migrants from makeshift camps on beaches and hillsides into the temporary reception network so they can be identified, informed of their legal options and, where appropriate, encouraged to repatriate. Six large coastal encampments have already been dismantled in coordinated security operations involving the National Police, Civil Guard and emergency services. Drones are now being used to locate small groups still sleeping rough in urban alleyways or wooded areas. Torres stressed that most arrivals do not apply for asylum because it would trigger a formal return order if protection is denied. Instead, they opt for the IOM-backed voluntary return programme, which provides transport and a reintegration stipend in Morocco. He praised local authorities for averting serious incidents during the operations and welcomed King Felipe VI’s visit this week, which he described as “historic support” for the border city. For employers and relocation teams, the update confirms that Ceuta remains under exceptional migration management but that flows back to Morocco are accelerating, reducing the likelihood of secondary movements into mainland Spain. Businesses with staff posted in the enclave should continue to monitor temporary border-control measures and expect sporadic identity checks when travelling via the port and heliport. Although work remains, the figures suggest the government’s combination of information campaigns, safe-return incentives and selective expulsions is beginning to relieve pressure on reception facilities and public services in the city.
Source: Agencia EFE
