The Policía Nacional said on Friday in Ceuta arrested three Moroccan men. According to the Jefatura Superior de Policía, which confirmed the incident to Europa Press, they are suspected of holding two underage migrant girls against their will at Playa del Trampolín and attempting to abduct them during the night into Thursday.
The authorities initially gave no detailed information about what happened or the precise time. Police sources said the investigation was ongoing. Investigators are examining, among other things, circumstances that could be relevant to an aggravated assessment of the offence. It was not known on Friday whether the detainees would be brought before an investigating judge or whether pre-trial detention would be sought.
The operation took place near a makeshift camp at Playa del Trampolín. Numerous recent arrivals have been staying there since the summer. In recent weeks, the authorities have repeatedly organised large-scale transfers to the Port of Ceuta to move people from beach camps into reception facilities there. Police presence has been increased following repeated incidents.
The alleged offence has once again drawn attention to the protection of unaccompanied minors and the security situation close to informal accommodation. Human rights and social organisations have long warned that children and young people are especially vulnerable in such circumstances. Security authorities, meanwhile, point to the challenge of intervening quickly and securing evidence in fast-changing situations without jeopardising investigations.
Official statements on Friday were limited to confirming the arrests and noting that investigations were under way. No independently verifiable details were available about the two girls concerned—for example, their ages, origins or current protection status. It is clear, however, that the Jefatura Superior de Policía, as the lead agency, is coordinating further communication and that the Policía Nacional continues to monitor the situation at Playa del Trampolín closely.
Further decisions, for example on charges or child-protection measures, are expected from the competent Ceuta Public Prosecutor's Office . Until then, the case remains an open investigation, the outcome of which will depend largely on the assessment of evidence and the statements of those affected.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).