Spanish prosecutors have documented a significant rise in sexual assault cases within Ceuta following a large-scale migration influx from Morocco. Chief prosecutor Silvia Rojas stated that 23 sexual assaults, including attacks on nine children, have been recorded since the end of July, representing an average of nearly one incident per day during this period. Rojas noted that migrant girls face particular vulnerability due to their irregular status within the territory, and indicated that many victims have not reported attacks due to fear or their precarious circumstances.
Approximately 72,000 migrants crossed into Ceuta on two consecutive days at the end of July. Although the majority have since returned to Morocco, an estimated 5,000 remain in the autonomous city. Among the remaining population, between 1,400 and 1,600 are children. The sustained presence of migrants has contributed to escalating tensions between newcomers and local residents, with reports of violent incidents occurring in recent days. Suspected attackers identified in the assault cases include four Moroccans, three Spanish nationals, and one Belgian.
The situation has prompted responses from Spanish government authorities. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez convened a second national security council meeting within a week to address the crisis. The cabinet approved a multi-million euro aid package intended to provide essential services and support for unaccompanied minors. Emergency medical personnel have treated sexual assault victims, including children as young as ten years old, according to a doctor at Ceuta University Hospital.
The crisis has generated significant political friction within Spain. The conservative mayor of Ceuta called for demonstrations across mainland Spain, while the mayor reported at least 100 deaths from individuals attempting to swim around the border fence. Opposition parties have criticized the government’s response, with some figures claiming the administration has not adequately addressed Morocco’s role. Sánchez has resisted assigning responsibility to Moroccan authorities, instead attributing the surge to disinformation campaigns on social media. Morocco has denied orchestrating or participating in the mass crossing.
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