Spain launches operation to clear Ceuta beaches as nearly 10,000 migrants remain

Spanish riot police fired rubber bullets into the air and used batons on Friday as authorities began clearing thousands of migrants from beaches in the North African enclave of Ceuta, with some being moved to temporary accommodation.The operation follows an unprecedented surge at the border in late July, when more than 72,000 people crossed into Ceuta from Morocco. Most subsequently left the territory, but Spanish authorities estimate that around 10,000 migrants remain.Authorities have set up temporary accommodation at Ceuta's port with a capacity for 1,700 people. NGOs, however, said thousands of migrants remained without shelter and were sleeping rough in makeshift camps.The operation to clear the beaches began shortly before 7 am and involved Spanish riot police as well as military personnel.According to Reuters, migrants who had spent the night on the beach hoping to secure a place in temporary accommodation initially applauded as the operation began. Tensions later escalated, with clashes breaking out as people competed for the limited spaces available.Most of those remaining are reportedly men and boys. Since the temporary accommodation has been designed only for adult men, minors are being separated and housed elsewhere.Three NGO leaders told Reuters that authorities had been too slow to provide the minimum shelter required under the European migration pact. They said the reception centres opened so far also lacked sufficient capacity to accommodate migrants still living on the streets.One NGO estimated that around 4,000 migrants were still sleeping outdoors on Ceuta's beaches and pavements. This means the newly opened centre is unlikely to be sufficient to clear the makeshift camps from public areas.Catch the latest World News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.