Voluntary Repatriation of Migrants from Benitez Shantytown
In a significant turn of events, numerous Moroccan migrants residing in makeshift settlements along Benitez beach have opted for voluntary repatriation to their home country. This decision comes amidst a broader operation aimed at relocating individuals living in precarious conditions within the area, as many migrants have been informed of their options during this process. Starting at approximately 9:30 AM, a fleet of buses began transporting these migrants to the Tarajal border crossing, where they could choose to return to Morocco.
The operation was overseen by a substantial contingent of the National Police, who ensured that the individuals gathered from the settlements were organized and safely escorted to their destination. The first stop for these buses was the Tarajal facilities, which house the Temporary Care Center for Foreigners (CATE). Here, migrants underwent the necessary registration processes to document their situations after entering Ceuta. Following this, they were set to be relocated to the Loma Colmenar reception camp, as confirmed by officials from the Ceuta Superior Headquarters.
Throughout the operation, a designated interpreter accompanied the police officers to clarify the procedures to the migrants. They were reassured that the buses were not heading to the border for forced deportation, but rather to the CATE, where they would be registered and given the opportunity to request international protection. Furthermore, the interpreter conveyed the option of voluntary return to Morocco, which prompted many migrants to consider this alternative, leading to their transport to the vicinity of the Tarajal border.
It is crucial to note that since the onset of the migration crisis, the Spanish government has maintained that applications for international protection must meet specific criteria as outlined by regulations. Economic or employment-related reasons, by themselves, do not qualify as legitimate grounds for asylum. This reality has led some Moroccan citizens to contemplate voluntary repatriation, as they recognize the slim chances of being granted asylum in Spain.
As reported by elpueblodeceuta.es.
