Thousands of migrants entered Ceuta this week. Ceuta is a Spanish-governed territory on the northern coast of Morocco.

Most migrants swam across the border from Morocco. Nine people died during the crossings.

Ceuta's leader Juan Jesús Vivas said the surge overwhelmed local resources. He asked Spain's government to step in.

Spain said it will send soldiers to Ceuta for security. Vivas said a Spanish Supreme Court ruling caused part of the surge.

He said the ruling limits quick returns of migrants who arrive by sea. Activists questioned whether the ruling was the real cause.

Some migrants were seen thanking Spanish police after arriving. Reports say some shouted phrases like Bye bye Morocco hello Spain.

Discarded flotation devices were found along the shore. The migrant arrivals have caused political tension in the region.

Italy asked for Spain to be suspended from the EU Schengen travel agreement. Spain called in Italy's envoy after that request.