Key facts
- Spain has requested assistance from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) for migrant processing in Ceuta.
- The request was made by Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska to the European Commission.
- Tens of thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco into Ceuta on July 30.
- Spain is seeking 10 additional Frontex officers.
- Tensions are rising in Ceuta due to protests and incidents involving migrants.
Spain has formally requested assistance from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) to help process migrants in the North African enclave of Ceuta. The appeal was made by Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska to the European Commission's director general for migration and home affairs.
This request comes nearly a month after tens of thousands of migrants rushed across the border from Morocco into Ceuta on July 30, an event that resulted in the deaths of at least 82 migrants on the Spanish side and 14 more confirmed by Morocco. Authorities estimate that between 5,000 and 8,000 people remain in Ceuta following the large influx.
In addition to processing aid, Spain has asked for 10 more Frontex officers. The situation in Ceuta has been marked by rising tensions, including protests by residents demanding the migrants' departure. Tents used by migrants have been attacked and set on fire, and a recent incident saw twelve migrants arrested after stoning an army vehicle, leading to the expulsion of eleven of them.