Spanish Police Move Hundreds of Migrants Off Ceuta Beaches

Spanish police on Friday began moving hundreds of migrants from the beaches of Ceuta to a new tented site in the port area of the Spanish enclave, where authorities have set up accommodation for people who have remained in the territory after a major influx from Morocco.

The transfer began at around 6:30 a.m. local time, according to a Spanish government source in Ceuta. Police faced difficulties controlling crowds as migrants jostled for places at the new site after spending weeks sleeping on the beaches.

Authorities say the temporary tent city has enough capacity for 1,700 people and is equipped with showers and beds.

Tens of thousands of migrants crossed into Ceuta from Morocco in late July. Most returned quickly, but several thousand remained in the Spanish territory, with many sleeping rough on its beaches.

Ceuta authorities estimate that around 13,000 migrants have remained in the territory, which covers just 18.5 square kilometers (7.2 square miles). Spain's central government has given a lower estimate.

The Spanish government proceeded with the relocation despite opposition from Ceuta's conservative local authorities. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has faced strong criticism over the government's handling of the migration crisis.

The situation has also contributed to tensions with Italy, which temporarily reintroduced border controls as the migrant crisis unfolded.