Minister Marlaska stated that in Spain, as well as in Ceuta, Melilla, and other cities in the country, there is no place for those who attempt to enter illegally and against the law. He commented on calls on social media to repeat the events of the 15th, which resembled the situation from July 30th, when about 72,000 people entered Ceuta within 24 hours.
On that day, at least 82 people died while trying to reach the Spanish city in North Africa, located on the border with Morocco, by swimming. Spanish authorities reported that after this, at least 70,000 people were returned to Morocco, and the remaining ones, mainly young people, stayed in the small Spanish enclave with a population of about 80,000 residents.
Marlaska told journalists that the Ministry of the Interior is working to prevent situations like the one that occurred on July 30th. He also noted that Morocco is actively and significantly strengthening border protection measures in both Ceuta and Melilla, continuing to do so, but even more intensely.
The Minister of the Interior emphasized the readiness to prevent and avoid such a possible invasion. He highly praised Spain's cooperation with Morocco, which is characterized by loyalty and trust. Marlaska assured that they have the necessary means and cooperation to prevent a situation like the one on July 30th.
It was explained that all social networks are under monitoring with the participation of intelligence services and data exchange with Morocco. The goal is to check the operational situation regarding the mobilization of citizens within Morocco. Marlaska warned that those who attempt to illegally enter Ceuta will not be transferred to the peninsula and will not be able to receive any form of protection.
He reminded migrants attempting to bypass control that they are risking their lives, as happened on July 30th. Marlaska stated that this path is not a path to the future, but rather a tragedy that will ultimately return people to where they came from.
Furthermore, he specified that Spain applies the Foreigners Law in humanitarian terms, which does not exclude strictness in countering any violations and preventing illegal immigration.
Regarding requests for international protection from migrants remaining in the autonomous city, Marlaska mentioned more than 400 already opened processes that will be reviewed in accordance with the law. However, he also gave a 'very clear' directive to security forces to detain illegal immigrants involved in criminal activities in Ceuta. Police forces must request judicial authorization for the deportation of such individuals, as allowed by the Foreigners Law, added Socialist government minister Pedro Sánchez.
Concerning minors, he stated that all authorities are working to comply with the law. He stressed that children who need to be returned will be returned, and those who cannot be returned under any circumstances or without permission, such as from the Prosecutor's Office, will not be returned.
Marlaska also defended the actions of the Civil Guard and National Police, noting that they act with full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, in response to accusations from Morocco regarding mistreatment of migrants arriving in Ceuta.
