Death toll in Spain border crisis reaches 67 as tens of thousands cross back in to Morocco
The death toll from a mass crossing into Spain’s North African territory of Ceuta has risen to 67, with people dying by drowning and in a stampede at a breakwater barrier. The incident has created a humanitarian and security crisis in the city, intensifying debate over migration policy in Spain and elsewhere in Europe.
About 60,000 people crossed from Morocco between Thursday and Friday, roughly 70% of Ceuta’s population of 84,000. Spain says most have since returned to Morocco and plans a 500-metre containment barrier extending into the sea; soldiers were also escorting new arrivals back across the border. Authorities say smugglers’ interpretation of a court ruling on sea arrivals helped prompt the surge.
- Sixty-seven people died during Ceuta’s mass border crossing.
- Around 60,000 people entered; most have returned to Morocco.
- Spain is strengthening border controls after the crisis.