Police move Ceuta migrants off beaches in Spanish enclave

Spanish authorities have begun relocating hundreds of migrants from the beaches of Ceuta, a Spanish enclave, to a newly established tent city in the port area. The transfer, which started around 6:30 am local time, aimed to alleviate the overcrowded conditions on the beaches where migrants had been living for weeks. Ceuta's police encountered difficulties in managing the large crowds vying for spots at the tent city. According to Spanish authorities, the tents can accommodate up to 1,700 people.

The influx of migrants from Morocco began in late July, with tens of thousands crossing the border. While most of them returned to Morocco, several thousand chose to remain in Ceuta and are currently sleeping on the territory's beaches. Ceuta authorities estimate that 13,000 migrants have stayed in the 18.5 square kilometer territory, while the central government claims the number is lower.

Ceuta's authorities decided to proceed with the relocation despite opposition from the conservative local government. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has faced significant criticism for his management of the migrant crisis, and is also at odds with Italy, which recently reinstated border controls.