At least 72 migrants died trying to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta

At least 72 people died while attempting to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco, Spain reported, following an unprecedented migratory wave at the North African Spanish territory. Spanish authorities stated that 72 was the latest figure for fatalities, a revision from an earlier count of 67. However, Morocco's Interior Ministry later provided its own initial toll, reporting 11 deaths, with ten attributed to drowning and one to a fall from a rocky area.

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The latest figure we have is 72.

Spanish police and troops patrolled Ceuta as the enclave returned to normalcy after the sudden arrival of migrants. Most of the estimated 60,000 individuals who entered Ceuta had returned to Morocco within 48 hours. Small groups of migrants were still seen wandering, but the majority had voluntarily crossed back over the border fence.

This mass influx has created an international crisis for Spain, drawing criticism from European partners regarding its migrant regularization policies. Pope Francis briefly addressed the crisis during his Sunday Angelus address, expressing concern and praying for peaceful, stable, and just solutions.

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I follow with concern the alarming situation in Ceuta. Asking God through the intercession of our Lord of Africa that solutions of peace, stability and justice can be found.

The Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH) reported "almost 130 victims" and dozens of disappearances, calling for an independent investigation into the causes of the migrant flow. The organization condemned the "disturbing silence of the authorities and institutions" in Morocco, suggesting that a lack of response contributed to the mass movement. An anonymous source close to the organization indicated that the circumstances of the arrivals suggested they could not have occurred without the "agreement of the authorities" of Morocco.

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almost 130 victims and dozens of disappeared

Moroccan authorities have remained silent on the victim count and arrests during Friday's clashes between Moroccan police and youth, and have not commented on the crisis. Spanish authorities have blamed criminal gangs for spreading rumors about a recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling on immigration that allegedly eased passage for migrants. Some analysts speculate that Morocco may have allowed the migrant crossings to exert diplomatic pressure.

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the disturbing silence of the authorities and institutions