Briefing
The Spanish Minister of the Interior Fernando Grande-Marlaska said on 16 October 2026 in Ceutathat the first phase of the exceptional operation following the mass border crossings on 30 July 2026 and 31 July 2026 had been completed “successfully”. According to the ministry, around 12,000 people have returned to Morocco since August; the authorities describe a combination of voluntary returns and returns based on judicial or administrative decisions.
The ministry stressed that there had been no “covert pushbacks” and referred to the legal procedures followed for every return. At the same time, staffing and resources had been increased so that an average of 100 cases per day could be processed nationwide, including asylum applications and, in most cases, return procedures. In Ceuta itself, the capacity of the CATE Tarajal was highlighted as a key element; mobile units and additional shifts had been set up there to speed up registration and identity checks.
Following extensive clearance operations in recent weeks, including on beaches and at informal camps, authorities reported that many of those affected had opted for the possibility of an orderly return process. Human rights organisations, however, are calling for greater transparency about the conditions under which so-called voluntary returns take place, as well as independent access to legal assistance and information about alternatives.
The government says it has eased the acute pressure on initial reception in Ceuta for the time being. Further developments will depend on future migration movements, cooperation with Morocco and available processing capacity. Regional authorities and the central government have said they intend to adapt the measures quickly if necessary. Independent media and agency reports from 14 to 16 October 2026 support the government’s main figures and statements, but leave some questions about the process and voluntariness of returns unanswered.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).