As the newspaper “The Guardian” writes, the position of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is clear: the migration crisis in Ceuta is a violation of Spain’s territorial sovereignty, driven by human trafficking gangs.
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According to him, human traffickers are spreading a “selfish” and misleading interpretation of the recent decision by the Spanish Supreme Court regarding the return of migrants, thus encouraging migration flows.
“From our talks with Moroccan officials, it became clear that the human trafficking mafias selfishly interpreted the Supreme Court’s decision,” said P. Sánchez.
This interpretation “has spread rapidly in recent hours,” he said.
Earlier this month, the court ruled that the provision for the immediate return of migrants who crossed the border illegally does not apply to those arriving by sea – but with certain important exceptions, that they cannot “overcome the established border protection elements.”
P. Sánchez emphasized that he is fully committed to fighting these criminal syndicates and defending Spain’s internal security, just as the government in Madrid would.
“The Spanish government supports the city of Ceuta. We understand the emotions and anxiety they have experienced in the past few hours, especially today,” said P. Sánchez, visiting the enclave.
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The Prime Minister explained that authorities will try to further adapt the border, for example, by installing more visible barriers marking the border (this point was specifically mentioned in the court ruling) – thus they will try to strengthen their position, taking into account the court decision, and facilitate repatriations.
Taking advantage of Ceuta’s unique geographical position – or, frankly speaking, the fact that migrants have nowhere else to go – they will be instructed to return back across the border or face official legal procedures.
The Spanish government will also examine whether some laws need to be changed to ensure the repatriation process of the involved persons.
“It is completely impossible”
During the recent influx of migrants from Morocco to the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in North Africa, about 60,000 people entered, local regional president Juan Jesus Vivas told journalists on Friday.
“Estimates show that about 60,000 people entered our city due to this event,” said J.J. Vivas. “This number shows that it is impossible to withstand such pressure. It is completely impossible.”
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