Morocco Reports 11 Deaths in Ceuta Migrant Surge; Spain Counts 72 Fatalities

Morocco's Interior Ministry reported that 11 individuals perished while attempting to reach the Spanish territory of Ceuta, an enclave located on North Africa's coast. This incident occurred amidst a massive surge of migrants trying to enter the area.

Spanish authorities provided a higher death toll, stating that at least 72 people lost their lives during the unprecedented influx. According to Rabat's figures, 10 migrants drowned, and one fell to their death from a rocky area. An estimated 60,000 migrants attempted to enter Ceuta, with a significant number swimming across the border.

Following the largest-ever border crossing event into the Spanish territory, the situation has largely stabilized. Spanish police and military are patrolling Ceuta's streets. Most of the individuals who crossed the border fence voluntarily returned to Morocco within 48 hours, leaving only small groups lingering in the area.

Spanish officials have pointed fingers at criminal organizations, alleging they spread rumors about recent Spanish court rulings on immigration that would supposedly ease entry. Some analysts suggest Morocco might have intentionally allowed migrants to cross as a diplomatic pressure tactic against Spain, particularly given Madrid's recent warming relations with Algeria, a rival of Rabat. In 2021, around 10,000 migrants entered Ceuta when Morocco relaxed border controls to pressure Spain.

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We currently have the latest figure of 72 people.