The Spanish Army detachment stationed on the tiny island of Alborán now has a brand new baking facility to make fresh bread, a much-needed improvement given the recent influx of migrant boats using this route. Mafias have brought 518 migrants to this small islet so far this year, where the soldiers lack the resources to care for them adequately. The Ministry of Defense is working on erecting a temporary building to improve conditions.
Defense officials have noted that this route is shorter, cheaper, and less dangerous for smugglers, making it a strategic choice. Despite the challenges, the military’s primary duty remains to protect the sovereignty of the territory. The Spanish government released funds to build a structure to temporarily house new arrivals, as they were spending weeks on the island without proper facilities.
The transfer of migrants to the mainland is now handled by the Civil Guard, causing delays of several weeks. With limited infrastructure on the island, the situation remains complex. The Interior Ministry is working to pick up migrants when weather conditions allow, but challenges persist.
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