Spanish police relocate hundreds of migrants to new tent camp in Ceuta

Police in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta began transferring migrants from the beaches to a newly established tented camp in the port area early Friday, moving over 3,000 people according to the state news agency Efe. The operation, which started at about 07:00 local time, involved more than 170 officers, including drone technicians, to manage crowds along a 2-kilometre route.

During the relocation, some migrants broke through the cordon, prompting reports that police fired warning shots into the air. Video footage showed groups of young men running as officers attempted to maintain order. Efe later said the situation was quickly brought under control, allowing the transfer to continue.

The temporary camp can accommodate up to 1,700 individuals; officials said several hundred migrants have already arrived. While most of the 72,000 people who entered Ceuta from Morocco in July have returned, authorities estimate more than 13,000 remain in the enclave.

"The city is completely different than it was before this event, Ceutans have lost their joy and their lifestyles have been completely shaken up," Ceuta Mayor Juan Jesús Vivas told lawmakers in the European Parliament.

The relocation is part of a government effort to centralise migrants in facilities where they can be identified and receive care while their legal status is assessed. The move comes amid criticism of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s handling of the crisis, with opposition figures accusing the government of prior knowledge and responsibility for the situation.

Local residents have expressed safety concerns since the influx, and some have obstructed aid deliveries. The political dispute also extends to Spain’s relations with Italy and Morocco, where temporary border controls have recently been extended.