The Ceuta migrant crisis is facing renewed scrutiny after three European lawmakers visited the Spanish enclave.
The lawmakers described the humanitarian situation as “grim”. They also warned about conditions facing thousands of migrants who remain in Ceuta.
Their visit came about two months after tens of thousands of migrants entered Ceuta from neighbouring Morocco.
Africanews, citing AFP, reported that most of the estimated 72,000 people were returned to Morocco within several days. However, thousands remain in Ceuta.
Thousands remain amid Ceuta migrant crisis
Spain’s national government estimates that around 5,000 people remain in Ceuta.
That figure includes about 1,200 minors. However, Ceuta’s local government has given a higher estimate.
The large number of arrivals has placed pressure on local resources.
Ceuta has a population of about 84,000. Therefore, the arrival of tens of thousands of people created major challenges for the territory.
Estrella Galán, a member of the European Parliament from The Left, raised concerns after visiting Ceuta.
She warned against keeping thousands of people in temporary camps. She also said Ceuta should not become an “open-air refugee camp”.
Lawmakers allege migrant mistreatment
The lawmakers also made serious allegations about the treatment of migrants.
Jaume Asens, an MEP from the Greens, alleged that military personnel had used violence against migrants.
He also alleged that some migrants had been beaten and had belongings taken from them.
However, these are allegations made by the lawmakers. The Africanews report did not establish that the alleged acts had been independently proven.
Amnesty International has also accused members of Spain’s armed forces of torture and other forms of cruel or degrading treatment.
Spain orders military investigation
Meanwhile, the Spanish government has ordered an internal military investigation.
The investigation will examine whether individuals were responsible for the alleged abuses.
The Ceuta migrant crisis has also caused tensions within the enclave.
Local authorities say the large number of arrivals has placed heavy pressure on resources.
They also accused Spain’s central government of ignoring warning signs before the large influx.
For now, thousands of migrants remain in Ceuta. Authorities continue to face pressure over accommodation, humanitarian conditions and allegations of mistreatment.