CEUTA: Tens of thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco into Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta, with at least 57 people reported dead during the mass entry attempt.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the incident as a violation of Spain’s territorial integrity and said authorities would take all necessary measures to protect Ceuta’s residents.
Spanish authorities said around 50,000 people crossed the border, while Ceuta’s president put the figure closer to 60,000. Spain has deployed additional police and military personnel to the enclave.
The Spanish government has also announced a temporary reception centre to handle registration, documentation and the swift return of those without a legal basis to remain in Spain.
Spanish authorities said more than 48,300 people had voluntarily returned to Morocco by Friday evening.
Sánchez blamed human-smuggling networks for facilitating the mass crossing, while Moroccan officials said the people involved had been brought by criminal organisations.
