The Guardia Civil and Marine Rescue intercepted a boat carrying 56 passengers who were exploring alternative means of entering the country, presumably in order to avoid the long queues at immigration control.
The boat was detected by the SIVE surveillance system about two miles off the Huelva coast near La Rabida. Marine Rescue vessels then intercepted the boat, an eight metre long craft fitted with a 40 horse power outboard motor, and escorted the passengers to the port of Motril, Granada province.
Tests showed that at least 41 of the passengers were minors, some as young as ten years old. All were said to be in good health, their condition helped by calm seas during their journey.
The passengers are now enjoying the hospitality of the National Police at the Temporary Detention Centre in Motril.