In a significant development, over 1,200 migrants have chosen to return to Morocco after Spanish authorities began dismantling a makeshift camp in Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in Morocco. The camp, known as "Trampoline," was home to over 3,000 migrants who had been living in irregular conditions since a massive influx of migrants in July 2026. The returns are expected to continue, with a notable increase in numbers.
According to Spanish media reports, citing security sources, a large number of migrants opted not to go through the temporary assistance center for foreigners (CATE), where their situations would be assessed and their eligibility for international protection determined. Instead, they chose to return to their home country. This decision comes after more than two months of living in Ceuta without a regular status.
The Spanish National Police began the evacuation of the Trampoline camp on Sunday, October 4, with the largest number of returns recorded on that day. The returns continued on Monday, October 5, with a 12-person increase compared to the previous day's tally. This development is seen as a significant shift in the migration situation in Ceuta.
The situation in Ceuta has been a challenge for Spanish authorities, with around 80,000 people entering the enclave in July 2026. The migrants had been living in makeshift camps, including the Trampoline camp, which was set up on a beach. The Spanish authorities' efforts to address the situation have included the establishment of the CATE center to process the migrants' situations.
The returns are seen as a positive development, with many migrants opting for voluntary repatriation. This comes after a similar development in September, when over 150 migrants who had been living on a beach in Benitez chose to return to Morocco instead of going through the processing procedures.
The situation in Ceuta remains a complex issue, with many migrants still in need of assistance. However, the returns are seen as a step in the right direction, with many migrants choosing to return home voluntarily. The Spanish authorities are continuing their efforts to address the migration situation in Ceuta.
The Moroccan authorities have not made an official statement on the returns, but it is understood that they are working closely with Spanish authorities to address the situation. The returns are expected to continue, with many migrants still in Ceuta.
Key points
- Over 1,200 migrants have returned to Morocco from Ceuta since the dismantling of the Trampoline camp.
- The returns are expected to continue, with many migrants still in Ceuta.
- The situation in Ceuta remains a complex issue, with many migrants still in need of assistance.
