HIBAPRESS – Barcelona: Omar Razzini
Algeciras Port witnessed a state of chaos and tension after clashes erupted between a number of travelers and security personnel, due to the suspension of sea voyages because of bad weather and unstable sea conditions.
According to circulated data, some ticket offices continued to sell tickets to travelers despite their prior knowledge of the inability of ferries to sail in such climatic conditions, which created a state of anger and resentment among the travelers, especially from the Moroccan community.
A number of travelers expressed their rejection of being prevented from boarding the ferries, considering that having a ticket gives them the right to travel immediately, while the security authorities and the port administration emphasized that the safety of passengers comes first, and that the decisions taken are solely related to maritime safety factors.
Sources from the port confirmed that the sea conditions do not currently allow sailing, warning of the great risks that may result from ignoring weather warnings, and stressing that the sea "should not be underestimated" and does not tolerate adventure.
Human rights activists and those interested in community affairs demanded that maritime transport companies bear their responsibilities, and stop selling tickets during periods when the suspension of voyages is expected, to avoid such protests and to preserve the dignity and safety of travelers.
