At least 72 people have died following a massive migrant surge into Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta, as tens of thousands of people attempted to enter the Spanish territory from Morocco over the past several days, local officials confirmed on Sunday.
Miguel Angel Perez Triano, the Spanish government’s delegate to Ceuta, said the latest confirmed death toll had risen to 72, up from the previously reported 67 fatalities. Authorities estimate that around 60,000 migrants crossed into Ceuta between Wednesday and Friday, making it the largest mass migrant influx ever recorded in the Spanish enclave.
Most of the migrants reportedly swam around border barriers or crossed through coastal areas. Spanish authorities said the majority have since voluntarily returned to Morocco within 48 hours, while hundreds, including unaccompanied minors, remain in Ceuta awaiting further decisions.
Spanish police, Civil Guard officers and military personnel continued patrolling Ceuta on Sunday as authorities worked to restore order. Rescue teams searched the Mediterranean waters near the border using inflatable boats, while a newly installed 500-metre floating security barrier has been deployed to strengthen border protection.
Many migrants claimed they crossed after hearing rumours on social media that Spain had eased its immigration rules following a recent Supreme Court ruling. The Spanish government has blamed criminal smuggling networks for spreading false information that encouraged the mass crossing.
The crisis has sparked sharp political tensions across Europe. Twenty-two European Union member states have called for an emergency meeting to coordinate a response, while Italy temporarily suspended its Schengen agreement with Spain for one month, tightening border controls.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticised what he described as the “selfish” response of some European partners, urging greater solidarity in handling migration pressures. Pope Leo XIV also expressed concern over the humanitarian situation, calling for a solution based on peace, stability and justice.
The latest crisis has also revived questions over Morocco’s role, with analysts suggesting Rabat may have relaxed border controls amid renewed diplomatic tensions with Spain, although Moroccan authorities have not officially commented on the incident. The situation remains under close monitoring as Spain and the European Union seek coordinated measures to prevent further mass crossings.