Spanish security unions protest conditions as scabies outbreak affects troops in Ceuta

Outbreak and official response

Spain's Ministry of Defence confirmed on 19 August 2026 that 24 soldiers stationed at the General Command of Ceuta have been diagnosed with scabies. The department, led by Defence Minister Margarita Robles, stated that the infections are not connected to the arrival of migrants at the end of July. Officials noted that two of the recorded cases predated the late-July border entries and maintained that scabies is a frequent condition in areas with elevated humidity. The military health authority in Ceuta has introduced a health protocol across all units to identify symptoms early, treat infected personnel according to health guidelines, and disinfect affected military installations.

Union complaints over lodging and equipment

Military associations have contested the official explanation and pointed to deteriorating working and living conditions. The Unión de Militares de Tropa linked the initial cluster of infections to the housing provided to personnel on 15 August at the disused K-8 coastal battery, a facility described by the association as unmaintained, prone to past infestations, and overcrowded. The association also reported that deployed soldiers had to purchase their own protective masks and gloves because official protective gear had not been distributed. Marco Antonio Gómez, president of the Asociación de Tropa y Marinería, noted that troop salaries remain at 1,300 euros per month despite demanding assignments.

We are here to serve society, but to be able to do so, better working conditions and recognition commensurate with their effort and dedication are necessary.

Operational conditions across security forces

Representative Antonio Seoane of the military non-commissioned officers association ASFASPRO warned that total scabies infections among soldiers could exceed 60 cases when accounting for a 40-person group still within the disease's incubation period. Seoane criticized the use of uninspected bedding and stated that personnel work 13-hour shifts without extra financial compensation. Police unions, including JUPOL, SUP, and CEP, confirmed scabies cases among National Police officers from the First Police Intervention Unit deployed to the city. Police representatives reported severe accommodation shortages, noting that approximately 70 officers on one floor were sharing a single toilet facility.

Health system strain and legal filings

The local medical infrastructure is experiencing substantial pressure following the border crisis. The Ceuta Nursing College reported that healthcare staff are treating more than 200 patients daily, including over 200 cases of acute gastroenteritis, 21 of impetigo, 20 of scabies, and 4 of tuberculosis. Rosa Fuentes, president of the nursing college, requested that the central government declare a state of alarm to allocate necessary emergency resources. Maria João Forjaz, president of the Spanish Society of Epidemiology, stated that outbreaks stem from overcrowded conditions and resource deficits rather than the arrival of migrants.

Thinking that they bring diseases is medically erroneous and also dangerous.

The Asociación Unificada de Guardias Civiles submitted a formal biological risk complaint to the Director General of the Civil Guard on 19 August. The submission demands immediate provision of FFP2 and FFP3 masks, specialized gloves, eye protection, and disposable gowns, alongside professional laundering services to prevent agents from washing contaminated uniforms at home. Police union JUPOL has instructed its legal team to examine potential governmental liability and failure of duty regarding deployment conditions.