Spain said it had largely reversed an unprecedented mass crossing into Ceuta, its North African enclave, after more than 50,000 migrants entered from Morocco by land and sea. At least 57 bodies were recovered on the Spanish side, with further deaths possible in Morocco, highlighting the humanitarian dangers and political strain surrounding Europe’s external borders.

Spain estimated that 48,300 people had returned voluntarily by Friday evening, while local officials put the total number who crossed at up to 60,000. Some migrants reportedly drowned or were crushed near the border breakwater, while Moroccan security forces used tear gas and batons to stop further crossings; Spain deployed military vehicles and accelerated repatriations with Moroccan cooperation. The incident prompted EU tensions after Italy said it would suspend Schengen arrangements with Spain, a move Madrid called a breach of EU treaties.