Spain installs 500-metre floating barrier at Ceuta coast
The 500-metre floating barrier was placed after tens of thousands crossed into Ceuta; thousands were returned to Morocco and authorities intensified patrols at Tarajal beach.
Spanish police have installed a 500-metre floating barrier along the coast of the Spanish enclave of Ceuta after mass migrant crossings that overwhelmed the area.
Around 50,000 people crossed into Spanish territory by land and sea in the recent surge, putting record pressure on this rare land border between the European Union and Africa. The wave of arrivals ended tragically for many, with a significant number of fatalities reported.
Returns and patrols
Spanish authorities say more than 48,000 migrants were returned to Morocco within 48 hours without major incidents. From Saturday morning, soldiers and police have been patrolling Tarajal beach where many of the landings took place.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: "Not a single illegal migrant who entered at Ceuta reached European soil."
Officials described the floating barrier as a measure to control crossings at sea while security forces increase surveillance along the shoreline. The developments underline growing tensions at the EU's southern frontiers and raise questions about humanitarian safeguards for those attempting to cross.
Photo: press material from the event
