Operation Return of Marlaska, halfway through: Dozens of Maghrebis still roam the center of Ceuta and hundreds in its neighborhoods

Ceuta has begun to regain some calm amid political tensions, following a massive influx of Moroccan migrants that reached unprecedented levels. On Saturday, the city saw fewer groups of young people wandering its streets compared to the days prior, though the situation remains tense. The mass entry of over 60,000 Moroccans into the autonomous city, peaking on Thursday with numbers never before recorded, has left authorities struggling to manage the flow. Since Friday, the number of arrivals has decreased, with reports of attempts by small groups of up to 200 or 300 individuals to cross the border. The surge led to at least 67 fatalities, prompting the military and the Guardia Civil to deploy extensively to handle the crowds. Despite these efforts, the city continues to grapple with the aftermath, as political tensions rise alongside the ongoing humanitarian challenge. The crisis began with a dramatic increase in migrant entries, primarily through the El Tarajal border crossing. The sheer volume overwhelmed local infrastructure, forcing businesses such as shops, bars, and gas stations to close temporarily. As the situation stabilized, many of these establishments have started reopening cautiously, albeit with limited capacity. Some vendors have allowed migrants to purchase food and water from outside their premises, fearing the risks of admitting large groups inside. In one instance, a shopkeeper in the residential area of José Zurrón described how he managed access by allowing customers to enter two at a time, ensuring safety while still providing essential goods. This delicate balance reflects both the resilience of local businesses and the persistent challenges posed by the influx. Meanwhile, the presence of police and military forces has become more pronounced, particularly near key locations such as the Covirán supermarket. Officers have been seen engaging with migrants, asking for euros to determine eligibility for entry. These interactions highlight the complex interplay between security measures and the need to provide basic necessities. In other areas, such as the Plaza Nicaragua park, migrants have gathered in shaded spots, taking advantage of the relative calm to rest and clean themselves. However, this temporary respite does little to ease the underlying concerns among residents, who remain wary of potential unrest. In some neighborhoods, tensions have escalated further. Residents in areas like Rosales and La Pantera have reported incidents involving unauthorized entry into homes and theft of clothing. In response, local communities have organized informal patrols to monitor their surroundings and deter further disturbances. While these efforts aim to restore order, they underscore the growing divide between the migrant population and long-term residents. The fear of continued disorder has led some locals to retreat indoors, especially after the initial shock of the crisis. This self-imposed isolation reflects both personal safety concerns and broader societal anxieties. Authorities continue to emphasize the need for controlled returns, with officials acknowledging that thousands of migrants still require assistance in leaving the city. President Juan Jesús Vivas, speaking during a public appearance with regional leaders, reiterated that the situation is far from normalized, stressing that several thousand individuals remain in need of repatriation. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior’s Operation Return has made progress, though it appears incomplete. Security forces have been actively identifying and guiding returning migrants toward the border, often accompanying them until they reach the designated points of exit. Despite these efforts, the operation has faced criticism for its inconsistent enforcement, with some residents alleging that smaller businesses are being pressured to close while larger commercial centers remain under surveillance. As the city gradually reclaims its sense of stability, the path forward remains uncertain. The immediate focus will likely shift toward managing the remaining migrant population and addressing the lingering fears within the community. With the political landscape already strained, the resolution of this crisis will play a crucial role in shaping future policies and public sentiment. For now, Ceuta stands at a crossroads, balancing the demands of security, compassion, and governance in the wake of an unprecedented migration wave.