Kathmandu— Following an estimated 72,000 migrants entering the Spanish enclave of Ceuta between July 30-31, authorities have recorded at least 15 cases of rape as of Sunday, according to reports from El Mundo citing Spain’s national gendarmerie. The sudden influx has overwhelmed local infrastructure in the city of approximately 84,000 residents and sparked political tensions within Europe regarding immigration policies and border security. Thousands of migrants remain in makeshift camps throughout Ceuta, including on Trampolin Beach, while around 1,800 unaccompanied minors have been identified.

Influx Overwhelms City Resources

The crisis began when an estimated 72,000 migrants entered Ceuta at the end of July. While many are reported to have returned, thousands remain, placing significant strain on the city’s infrastructure and welfare systems. Approximately 1,800 unaccompanied minors have been identified among those remaining, but sources in the Civil Guard indicate they are often released back onto the streets after receiving identification bracelets due to capacity limitations.

Reports of Sexual Assaults Increase

Spain’s Civil Guard has confirmed at least 15 cases of rape since the migrant influx began. The latest incident occurred on Friday, with three men apprehended while allegedly attempting to sexually assault a 10-year-old girl. At least four migrant girls under the age of 14 have reportedly received treatment for alleged sexual assaults.

Political Fallout and EU Criticism

The Ceuta crisis has intensified an already divisive debate surrounding immigration in Spain and across Europe, particularly in light of previous high-profile cases involving migrants. Leaders from 22 EU nations signed a letter in early August accusing Madrid of undermining the bloc’s security due to its perceived lax immigration policies, with some calling for Spain's exclusion from the Schengen borderless travel zone. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has defended his government’s approach, labeling the joint EU letter as “selfish, polarizing and unlawful” and maintaining that the crisis is not a result of Madrid’s broader migration policies.

The situation in Ceuta remains fluid as authorities continue to manage the large number of migrants and address the reported increase in sexual assaults. The political ramifications within Spain and across the European Union are expected to persist.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.