Spain deploys floating barrier after 67 die in mass migrant influx to Ceuta

Spain has installed a floating barrier off the coast of its North African enclave, Ceuta, following a surge of migrants that led to the deaths of at least 67 people. The unprecedented influx saw around 50,000 individuals attempt to enter Ceuta by land and sea since Thursday, overwhelming the EU's border with Africa.

Spanish authorities reported that over 48,000 of these individuals were returned to Morocco within 48 hours. The Spanish Guardia Civil commenced the installation of the 500-meter barrier at the Tarajal breakwater, a key crossing point, early Saturday morning. The inflatable barrier, combined with anchored buoys, is designed to rise 30 to 70 centimeters above the water and extend up to a meter below its surface, with passages for patrol boats.

At least 67 bodies have been recovered on the Spanish side of the border, with some migrants drowning or perishing while attempting to scale the breakwater and border fence. Many migrants were reportedly driven by economic hardship and encouraged by rumors spread on social media, prompting them to risk the dangerous crossing.