Spain’s Ceuta migrant rush leaves 72 dead as border crisis deepens
Local officials confirmed that the death toll has increased to 72. Earlier reports had put the number of deaths at 67.
Authorities estimate that around 60,000 migrants entered Spain’s North African territory during the mass crossing. Most of them have already returned to Morocco within the last two days.
Ceuta government delegate Miguel Angel Perez Triano told reporters, “The latest figure that we have is 72,” while confirming the updated number of fatalities. The incident has become the largest migrant crossing ever recorded in the Spanish enclave.
Spanish police and soldiers remained deployed across Ceuta to maintain security. The situation has become much calmer after the sudden influx that took place between Wednesday and Friday.
Only a small number of migrants were still seen in different parts of the city. Many of those who crossed the border voluntarily returned to Morocco within 48 hours.
Several migrant children were staying in a deserted industrial area while waiting for help. Some others were resting on pavements as they hoped to continue their journey.
“All the children here want to go to (mainland) Spain,” said Moroccan national Aziz Dabch, 41. His statement highlighted the hopes of many young migrants stranded in Ceuta.
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Security forces also detained groups of exhausted migrants near the port area. Rescue teams continued searching the sea near the border fence, while a new 500-metre floating barrier was added to strengthen border protection.
Civil Guard officers escorted more migrants back to the border crossing. Workers were also clearing rubbish, clothes and other items left behind after the mass crossing.
Spanish officials blamed criminal gangs for spreading rumours that a recent immigration ruling would make it easier for migrants to enter Spain. They said false information circulated quickly through social media.
Some analysts believe Morocco may have allowed the crossings to increase diplomatic pressure on Spain. The two countries have recently faced tensions over Spain’s improving relations with neighbouring Algeria.
A similar situation happened in 2021 when around 10,000 migrants entered Ceuta after Morocco relaxed border controls. Moroccan authorities have not officially commented on the latest crisis.
European Union members are preparing an emergency video meeting after 22 countries called for a coordinated response. They want to prevent more uncontrolled migrant crossings in the future.
Italy has temporarily suspended its Schengen agreement with Spain for one month. The move affects visa-free movement between the two countries.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticised what he described as the “selfish” response from some European countries. He urged EU leaders to show greater unity.
Pope Leo XIV also expressed concern over the humanitarian situation. He said he hopes for a solution based on “peace, stability and justice”.
The Spain’s Ceuta migrant rush has become more than a border issue because it now involves humanitarian, political and security concerns. European countries may increase cooperation on border control, while Spain faces growing pressure to manage migration and protect lives.
