187 Migrants Storm Morocco-Ceuta Border Fence

Ceuta’s government spokesman indicated that the migrants stormed Morocco-Ceuta border fence of Tarajalat 5 a.m. by running at high speed, adding that an estimation of 187 persons managed to enter the Spanish-controlled enclave.

Ceuta’sofficers, surprised by sub-Saharan migrants’ sprint,failed to stopthe cross-border attempt.

Red Cross’s volunteers have assisted 186 migrants,4 of which have been hospitalized, according to the Red Cross Ceuta’s official Twitter account.

Sub-Saharan migrants were remanded then to an immigration detention center while requesting for the asylum.

Last week, 73 sub-Saharan migrants managed to cross the Ceuta border using wire cutters to break through the razor-wire fencing, out of a total 200 who attempted.

Ceuta is one of two Spanish territories located in northern Morocco, the other being Melilla. They have become magnet areas for sub-Saharan migrants willing to cross deserts, defy razor wire, and put up with dangerous conditions in search of a better life in Europe.

Spain’s Interior Ministry estimated the number of migrants successfully reaching Spain via the border fence route reached3,200 in 2016. So far in 2017, they say, that number has already doubled.

Source: BNA