Many migrants who crossed into Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta this week have started returning to Morocco, saying hunger, exhaustion and poor conditions ended their hopes of building a new life in Europe. Many said they were encouraged by social media posts suggesting the heavily guarded border could be crossed, only to find themselves stranded in Ceuta with no way to reach mainland Spain.
Several migrants told Reuters they survived with little food and water, while others claimed shops were closed and supplies were difficult to find. Some also alleged they were chased away by residents in parts of the city, although Reuters could not independently verify those claims. Spain’s Interior Ministry said two people suffered minor injuries in separate knife attacks, and one suspect had been arrested.
As the situation eased, businesses in central Ceuta gradually reopened, although security remained tight and migrant reception centres were reportedly full. While some local residents said they feared the sudden influx, others expressed sympathy for the migrants, arguing they had been misled and exploited. Despite the growing number of people returning to Morocco, some migrants remained determined to stay, saying they would rather continue trying than give up on reaching Europe.
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