Ceuta Officials Dispute Government's Migrant Claims

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that "virtually all" Moroccans who entered Ceuta have already returned to Morocco. According to local media and politicians, however, this claim does not reflect reality, with thousands of people reportedly still on the city's streets and incidents continuing to occur.

Although security forces in the Spanish enclave have been reinforced, local media report that they are unable to intervene in all locations where violent conflicts are breaking out.

Both the interior and foreign affairs ministries claim that most Moroccans have already voluntarily returned to their country. Albares also emphasized that it is not possible to reach mainland Spain from Ceuta or Melilla without passing through police checkpoints, and that the integrity of the Schengen Area is ensured.

However, his statements were questioned by local politicians, among others. Councilwoman Fátima Hamed said the data does not reflect what is happening in the city's neighborhoods. MP Melchor León also voiced criticism, writing that he was ashamed "that people are being deceived in this way", because, in his view, the published figures do not reflect the reality on the streets.

León also said the central government had reacted too late. He thanked all parliamentary groups in the local assembly for their unified approach, noting that Ceuta stands above political parties.

(elfarodeceuta, echo24, bak)