The death toll from attempts to reach Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta by sea has climbed to 57, Spanish authorities confirmed on Friday. This follows one of the largest irregular migration surges in recent years at Spain's southern border.
During the crisis, an estimated 50,000 migrants crossed into Ceuta, overwhelming local reception capacities and prompting the deployment of additional National Police, Civil Guard, and military personnel to bolster border security.
However, most migrants have since returned to Morocco. Spanish officials report that around 37,500 individuals voluntarily left after realizing they could not remain in Ceuta or proceed to mainland Spain. Many migrants reported expecting accommodation upon arrival but encountered overcrowded facilities and limited prospects for staying.
The European Commission has expressed readiness to support Spain further, including potentially reinforcing the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), if requested. It also continues close cooperation with Moroccan authorities to manage borders and prevent further irregular crossings.
Despite the sharp decline in crossings, security forces remain on high alert along the Ceuta border, maintaining coordination with Morocco to prevent additional large-scale irregular entries.
