Ceuta Struggles with Migrant Influx as Assault Cases Rise

Reception facilities in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta are overwhelmed following the mass arrival of people from Morocco. As a result, many women are sleeping outdoors, where they say they fear for their safety.

More than a dozen of them have set up a makeshift camp near a police van at the migration center. Wafae Atid, a Moroccan woman, told Reuters that men stalk women at night and try to attack them.

Spain’s largest police union reported that since 30 July, 15 sexual assaults of varying severity have been reported in Ceuta, with most of the victims being minors. Judicial authorities confirmed three cases of sexual assault involving female migrants, two of which involved minors.

Health services treated five women for sexual violence. Health Minister Mónica García emphasized the need for safe shelter for women and children.

According to authorities, approximately 5,000 to 8,000 people remain in the enclave. Temporary reception centers are set to create an additional 1,500 spots.

(Reuters, bak)