Human Rights Groups Estimate Over 140 Deaths in Ceuta Border Crossing

Human rights organizations report a significantly higher death toll than officially confirmed for migrants attempting to reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The Moroccan Human Rights Organization (AMDH) and a European association of Moroccan organizations estimate at least 141 deaths, with a representative stating that the final numbers are not yet available and may still rise.

These figures contrast sharply with official tallies. Spanish government data indicated approximately 72,000 people reached Ceuta by land or sea in the past week, with 80 deaths reported. The government chief of Ceuta cited around 100 deaths, while Moroccan authorities confirmed eleven fatalities on their territory. Between 1,000 and 2,000 people, mostly children and adolescents, remain in Ceuta with limited access to basic necessities like water, food, and safe sleeping spaces.

Meanwhile, Morocco has taken punitive measures against individuals facilitating border crossings. Seven taxi drivers were sentenced to up to six months in prison and ordered to pay fines equivalent to approximately 930 euros each for transporting people to the Ceuta border. Their vehicles were also confiscated. The ruling, issued in Tetouan, found them guilty of facilitating illegal departures and operating without a license. The taxi drivers' union has condemned the sentences as "shocking and harsh," noting the absence of official restrictions on passenger transport.