Operation Strait Crossing swings into action in Almeria

THE annual “Operation Strait Crossing” began on June 15 and will continue until September 15.

Five ferries are now operating between Almeria and North Africa as immigrant workers go home for the summer holidays. At full capacity they will carry a total of 6,500 people and 1,400 vehicles a day.

The second phase of the operation starts on August 15 as workers return to their jobs throughout Europe.

Proteccion Civil and the Sub-delegation to the regional government have as usual drawn up plans to ensure that the thousands of North Africans arriving in Almeria travel in the best possible conditions.

An 11-strong team of social workers, interpreters and civil protection members are on call each day, together with a medical unit of doctors, nurses and Red Cross volunteers.