Italy strengthens blockade of Spain: border control extended because of Ceuta
Italian authorities have decided to extend temporary border controls on air and sea routes connecting the country with Spain
The Italian authorities have decided to extend temporary border controls on air and sea routes connecting the country with Spain. The restrictions will remain in effect for another 15 days. The information was confirmed by the Italian Interior Ministry.
The decision was signed by Minister Matteo Piantedozi after consultations with the relevant committee on migration and border security analysis. The reason for the move was the continuing tense situation in the Spanish exclave of Ceuta.
Italian law enforcement officers will continue to conduct enhanced checks on passengers arriving from Spain by air and sea. The Interior Ministry said that the main purpose of the measures is to protect European borders, ensure national security and prevent possible terrorist threats.
Rome officially notified the European Commission and the interior ministers of other EU countries about the extension of the restrictions. Additional checks were first introduced on August 1 amid the migration crisis in Ceuta.
