Spanish police have begun a partial eviction of Trampolín beach in Ceuta, targeting makeshift camps where over 3,000 migrants live. The operation focuses on relocating people for identification and potential return to Morocco, with security measures tightened around key infrastructure.
Armored police vehicles arrived at Trampolín beach in Ceuta early this morning. The National Police started moving people out of one of Spain's largest informal migrant camps. Police sources told SER and other Spanish outlets that the operation began on October 4, 2026. This is just the first step in a bigger plan to relocate thousands of migrants living along the city's coast.
Officials are focusing on the part of Trampolín closest to the desalination plant. This facility is now a top concern for both security and health. EFE and other Spanish media report that the Ministry of Environment and local government agreed to clear and fence off the area. Their goal is to stop new camps from popping up near the plant. Earlier this week, a similar operation took place at Benítez beach. The perimeter around the Benítez desalination plant is now fenced and secured.
Water samples from El Trampolín beach showed high levels of E. coli contamination, which authorities cited as a key reason for the intervention.
Police and EFE estimate that more than 3,000 migrants live in the Trampolín camp. Some sources say the number could be over 3,500. Specialized UIP units and armored BMR vehicles came from Madrid for today's operation. The scale is clear. Migrants chosen for relocation are being taken to the CATE center at the Tarajal border. There, authorities will check identities and sort cases. After processing, people can choose to return to Morocco through the border crossing. Several Spanish news agencies confirmed this process.
The scene on the ground is calm, despite the heavy police presence. But there are limits. Only some of the camp's residents can be moved now. Official reception centers do not have enough space for everyone. The approach is similar to what happened at Benítez. Voluntary return was offered there too. EFE reports that the CETI reception center has been over capacity for weeks. Local resources are stretched thin.
Ceuta's border situation is drawing more attention. Recent protests in nearby Fnideq during a royal visit have kept the region in the news, as reported earlier by Spanish media.
The current operation is only the first stage of a larger plan, as authorities lack sufficient space in official centers to relocate all residents at once. The situation at Trampolín follows weeks of tension after a mass entry of migrants in late July, with makeshift camps persisting and local facilities overwhelmed.
By clearing camps near key infrastructure, Ceuta's authorities are taking a tougher line on informal settlements. The operation is slow. There is no other choice. Reception centers are full, and each case must be handled in order. The city faces a tough balance. Officials must protect vital services and keep order, but also consider the needs of people living in these camps. This move could shape how Ceuta handles similar situations in the future.
