Migrant deaths off Ceuta coast reach 75 after Morocco influx

The number of people who died off the coast of the Spanish autonomous city of Ceuta after a massive migrant entry from Morocco has reached 75, according to data from the government delegation to the EFE agency. This update adds three new deaths to the toll reported on Monday.

Moroccan authorities have not changed their official count of 11 deaths on their territory, reported last Sunday. Spanish Civil Guard forces maintain their search deployment in the Tarajal border area to locate any additional victims. Most deaths are preliminarily attributed to drowning or crushing, pending forensic autopsies.

The Civil Guard's Criminalistics Service is identifying the bodies by comparing fingerprint samples with reports and photos from families shared on social media and in the news. To speed up this process, the service deployed a satellite transmission technology system in the area, allowing immediate fingerprint data transfer to central databases without relying on conventional networks.

Regarding returns and reception capacity, Spain's Ministry of the Interior estimates that approximately 72,000 people entered Spanish territory irregularly since July 30, primarily by swimming. Of these, nearly 70,000 have returned to Morocco. The remaining individuals are on the streets or near the Temporary Immigrant Stay Center (CETI), which is at full capacity with 512 beds and over 500 people waiting outside.