Ceuta: tensions rise between residents and migrants after new clashes

10:31

Tensions escalated in Ceuta following several incidents that occurred on Wednesday and Thursday morning between local residents and irregular migrants. The clashes, reported in various areas, come amid a context already marked by a massive influx of migrants at the end of July.

On Thursday morning, four Spanish soldiers were injured during an attack in the Benzú neighborhood, according to local media reports.

Four soldiers injured in an attack in Benzú

The events took place around 5:30 AM. Four members of the Ceuta general command were traveling in a military vehicle towards an observation post set up in the Benzú area.

As they approached a checkpoint, a group reportedly consisting of several dozen migrants confronted them after appearing from different directions.

Authorities are now seeking to establish the exact circumstances of this attack and the responsibilities of those involved. The incident occurs during a period of heightened tension surrounding the presence of migrants who arrived in the city during previous crossing attempts.

Tensions also reported at Trampolín beach

Another incident was reported in the area of Trampolín beach, where residents confronted migrants settled there.

According to provided details, some locals attempted to drive them away by throwing stones and dismantled several makeshift installations and camps. Slogans expressing their opposition to the occupation of this space were also shouted.

These scenes reflect a rise in tensions between a segment of the local population and the migrants present in several areas of Ceuta.

A highly tense migration situation

The city regularly faces arrivals of migrants and attempts to cross the border. The situation in recent days illustrates the difficulties related to managing this migratory pressure, which also poses security and social challenges.

The incidents that occurred in Benzú and at Trampolín beach come as authorities must address both security concerns and growing tensions between the different groups present in the territory.