Spain returns 37,500 migrants to Morocco after massive Ceuta border crossing
Spanish authorities have returned more than 37,500 migrants from the North African enclave of Ceuta to Morocco after an unprecedented surge that saw around 40,000 people cross the border in just a few days, according to Spain’s Interior Ministry.
The ministry said that by 3:30 p.m. local time on Friday (1330 GMT), a total of 37,500 migrants had been returned to Morocco as authorities intensified efforts to restore order in the Spanish territory bordering Morocco.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who visited Ceuta on Friday, said the government had accelerated the repatriation process for migrants who entered the enclave irregularly.
“The Spanish government stands with the people of Ceuta,” Sánchez said during his visit, acknowledging the anxiety and tension experienced by residents following the sudden influx of migrants.
He attributed the mass movement to false rumors spread by human trafficking networks, which allegedly encouraged thousands of migrants to attempt the crossing.
Sánchez also thanked Moroccan authorities for their cooperation in facilitating the return of migrants.
Spanish authorities have deployed additional security forces to Ceuta as border control operations continue.
The enclave, home to about 80,000 residents, has come under severe pressure following one of the largest migrant influxes in its history.
According to police sources, the majority of those crossing into Ceuta were young people and teenagers. Authorities also reported that 18 migrants drowned while attempting to reach the enclave by sea during the crossing.
Spain and Morocco continue to coordinate closely to manage the situation, while security forces remain on high alert to prevent further irregular crossings and dismantle human trafficking networks believed to be behind the mass movement.
