Spain requests Frontex help for Ceuta migrants

Spain has formally requested assistance from the International — Frontex (Frontex) to help process migrants in the North African enclave of Spain — Ceuta, nearly a month after a mass influx of migrants from Morocco. Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska sent the request to Beate Gminder, the International — European Commission's director general for migration and home affairs, asking for Frontex support in screening migrants who entered the enclave illegally. Spanish authorities estimate that between 5,000 and 8,000 migrants remain in Spain — Ceuta after at least 72,000 people crossed from Morocco on July 30, a rush that reportedly killed 82 migrants on the Spanish side and 14 more on the Moroccan side. Spain also requested 10 additional Frontex officers to assist with screening. The request comes amid rising tensions in Spain — Ceuta, with residents staging protests and demanding the migrants leave. Incidents include attacks on migrant tents at Trampolin Beach and the arrest of 12 migrants after stoning an army vehicle, injuring one soldier and four migrants; 11 were reportedly expelled. The Spanish government faces legal constraints on deporting migrants without individual assessments and has ruled out moving them to the mainland, partly due to Schengen concerns. Only about 500 unaccompanied minors are to be brought to the mainland. The Interior Ministry also noted that support from the European Union — European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) in conducting interviews and providing interpreters could be helpful, possibly carried out remotely.