Spain’s North African enclave of Melilla has come under renewed assault, with more than 200 migrants successfully scaling the border fence.
They used some of the same tactics deployed in other recent attempts, including hurling stones, sticks and bottles at police, according to officials.
The group used one of Melilla’s crossing points at the Spanish-Moroccan border.
Attempted break-ins to Melilla and Spain’s other possession in North Africa, Ceuta, have been undertaken increasing frequency in recent months. Only last week, a group of 100 managed to climb over the 6’ high fence despite the presence of a double layer of barbed wire.
While others have attempted landings into Spain and other European countries on board rickety sea vessels, the migrants targeting the parts of Spain which lie in North Africa are themselves from sub-Saharan countries.
This time, the migrants were predominately from Cameroon and Guinea. They were said to have sung triumphantly as they made their way to the migrant reception centre in Melilla, according to El Pais newspaper.
But their relief may be short. It is likely that they will be expelled. The reception centre has facilities for 480 people, but now houses some 1,300.
