Ministry of Interior: Spain bolsters Ceuta border security crisis - EXCLUSIVE

Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska has repeatedly expressed his appreciation and full support for the work of the country’s security forces, particularly its intelligence services.

This was said by the source in the Ministry of Interior Affairs of Spain, in an exclusive interview with CE Report.

Spain has faced an extraordinary situation in Ceuta, the origins of which are still under investigation. The source noted that several European countries have been targeted by hybrid attacks in recent years, while social media has played a significant role in amplifying disinformation.

“These circumstances undoubtedly had an impact on the migration crisis in Ceuta and posed a threat to security,” the source said.

Spain introduced additional border protection measures at the beginning of July after detecting an increase in the number of people attempting to swim across the border. However, these developments did not foreshadow a mass crossing on the scale witnessed on July 30 and 31.

Following the incidents, additional Civil Guard officers were deployed to the area, providing exceptional resources to strengthen border security. Currently, around 1,700 National Police and Civil Guard officers are working in Ceuta, representing the highest ratio of security personnel per inhabitant in the country. The Armed Forces are also providing support.

According to the source, the security mechanism guarantees the protection of the territorial integrity of Spain and the European Union.

At the same time, Spain remains firmly committed to respecting the human rights and dignity of migrants in Ceuta and throughout the national territory. The source stressed that protecting migrants’ rights is a key element in understanding the state’s response to the situation.

Humanitarian assistance centers have been established, while immigration procedures are being carried out with the utmost safeguards for migrants and potential applicants for international protection.

In addition, agreements have been reached with non-governmental organizations to complement the assistance provided to people in vulnerable situations, the source said.

Photo: Ministry of Interior Affairs of Spain