Migrant deaths in Ceuta rise to 67 as thousands return to Morocco

The Spanish enclave of Ceuta on the North African coast experienced a massive influx of tens of thousands of migrants. Spanish authorities reported that most have since returned to Morocco, having arrived "disappointed but voluntarily" due to bleak prospects for onward travel and a lack of accommodation and supplies. However, the crisis has claimed at least 67 lives, with rescue teams finding ten more bodies on Saturday, bringing the confirmed death toll to 67. Many are believed to have drowned while attempting to swim from Morocco to Ceuta. The European Union is beginning to process the shock of the events. Experts from EU member states met Saturday in a crisis session to discuss the developments. Ambassadors will convene on Monday to evaluate the situation and coordinate further actions. Discussions are expected to cover EU support for Spain and diplomatic efforts with Morocco. EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner assured that "not a single person crossed the border to the EU mainland," and Spain's Foreign Minister stated that nearly all of the at least 50,000 irregular arrivals in Ceuta had returned to Morocco. Despite the lack of prospects for acceptance or onward travel, hundreds reportedly attempted to reach Ceuta and Melilla on Friday evening. Spanish soldiers prevented access from the sea to the beach in Ceuta, indicating a significant de-escalation of the situation compared to previous days.

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No single person crossed the border to the EU mainland.