Ceuta, the Spanish enclave in North Africa, has registered 1,342 unaccompanied minors following a recent surge in migrant arrivals, according to local authorities. The influx has overwhelmed the city's reception facilities, which are designed for a much smaller number of individuals.
The Spanish government has deployed additional social workers and police to manage the situation, while humanitarian organizations are providing food, shelter, and medical care. Many of the minors are reported to be from Morocco and sub-Saharan African countries.
Local officials have called for increased cooperation with Morocco to address the root causes of migration and to ensure the safe return or integration of the minors. The Spanish central government has pledged to transfer some minors to facilities on the mainland to alleviate pressure on Ceuta's resources.
The situation remains fluid, with authorities working to identify and register all arrivals. The Spanish ombudsman has urged the government to ensure the rights and well-being of the minors are protected throughout the process.
