Spain has formally asked the European Border and Coastguard Agency, Frontex, for assistance in processing some 5,000 migrants who crossed into the North African territory of Ceuta one month ago, as the country grapples with a mounting migration crisis.

Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska sent the request to Beate Gminder, the European Commission's director general for migration and home affairs, on Friday, also asking for an additional 10 Frontex officers to accelerate screening efforts.

Spanish authorities are required to identify the remaining migrants in Ceuta to determine whether they qualify for international protection or, if not, to initiate procedures for their return. Authorities say between 5,000 and 8,000 migrants, including unaccompanied children, remain in Ceuta out of the 72,000 people who crossed the border from Morocco on July 30.

The mass crossing resulted in 82 deaths on the Spanish side of the border and 14 on the Moroccan side, according to official figures, though human rights groups report higher numbers.

Spain's request comes amid rising tensions in Ceuta, following a series of protests by residents demanding the migrants' departure. Tents on Trampolin Beach, where many migrants have been camping, have been attacked and set on fire.

Twelve migrants were arrested on Thursday after stoning an army vehicle, injuring one soldier and four migrants. Eleven were expelled from Ceuta, according to El Pais newspaper, citing sources from the city's main court.

On Tuesday, Madrid made a formal request for emergency funding from the EU to help address the situation. The ongoing crisis highlights the significant challenges facing Spain and the European Union in managing migration flows across the Mediterranean.

Source: www.aljazeera.com