Spain’s government will open an internal investigation into allegations that soldiers beat and humiliated migrants in Ceuta, after at least 20 migrants described assaults by military patrols in the Spanish enclave.
The government said it had no prior knowledge of the allegations but would investigate any violence that may have taken place. It also said those responsible would be held accountable if wrongdoing is confirmed.
The allegations were reported by Spanish outlet elDiario.es, which collected more than 20 direct testimonies from migrants.
Rights groups working in Ceuta have identified about 100 additional cases, according to the report.
The accounts describe a pattern of violence involving some military units, particularly the Spanish Legion and regular troops.
The migrants, including some minors, said soldiers beat them during patrols and raids and subjected them to humiliating treatment. Some also alleged that soldiers took their phones and other belongings.
One incident reported by elDiario.es took place on Sept. 11 in the Los Rosales neighborhood, where soldiers were conducting a nighttime raid. Volunteers and journalists found migrants sheltering in a ruined house, including three who were injured.
One migrant was seen with a deep wound to his head and blood covering his face. When asked who had injured him, he said the soldiers had beaten him.
After the soldiers left, other migrants emerged from hiding and described being beaten and humiliated. Three young people were taken to a hospital with significant injuries, according to the report.
The allegations have drawn demands for action from members of Spain’s governing coalition.
Sumar called for an investigation by the Defense Ministry and said those responsible should face accountability.
Podemos called for a deeper investigation and said soldiers accused of using violence should be suspended while the facts are established.
The Spanish government said it condemns all forms of violence and that security forces in Ceuta are responsible for maintaining public order.
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