Thousands crossed into Spain’s North African enclave as authorities struggled to contain the influx
Spain has ordered the deployment of its armed forces to the North African enclave of Ceuta after thousands of migrants crossed from neighbouring Morocco, triggering a major border crisis that has claimed at least nine lives.
The decision came after local authorities appealed to Madrid for urgent reinforcements as large crowds overwhelmed border security and crossed into the Spanish territory by land and sea.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is expected to visit Ceuta on Friday along with Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska to assess the rapidly evolving situation.
Border overwhelmed
Officials described the situation as one of the worst migration surges in recent years.
Rachid Sbihi, head of an association representing Spain’s Civil Guard officers in Ceuta, said the border had effectively collapsed under the pressure.
“The situation is absolute chaos. There are thousands of migrants crossing,” he said.
Videos from the area showed large groups of migrants, including families with women and children, making their way through the Tarajal border crossing and along nearby beaches into Spanish territory.
Nine dead in crossing
Spain’s government delegation in Ceuta confirmed that at least nine people died during Thursday’s crossings. While authorities did not specify the circumstances, footage from the area showed bodies floating in the water.
The latest tragedy comes after a sharp rise in attempts to reach Ceuta by swimming from Morocco’s northern coast, with dozens already reported dead this year while trying to reach the Spanish enclave.
Spain, Morocco coordinate response
Spain’s Interior Ministry said Moroccan authorities are working closely with Spanish security forces to stem the flow of migrants and prevent further illegal crossings.
Both governments have agreed to cooperate on the return of those who entered Ceuta unlawfully, while Moroccan police have reportedly intensified efforts to stop more people from approaching the frontier.
Political fallout
The crisis has also sparked concern elsewhere in Europe.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni warned that Italy could suspend aspects of the Schengen open-border agreement with Spain if the migration situation continues to deteriorate, citing national security concerns.
Meanwhile, Ceuta’s regional government has urged Madrid to declare a national emergency and deploy additional police and military personnel, saying reception centres are overwhelmed and hundreds of migrants have been forced to sleep on the streets.
Echoes of the 2021 crisis
The scenes have revived memories of May 2021, when more than 8,000 migrants entered Ceuta within 48 hours, triggering a diplomatic standoff between Spain and Morocco.
Located on the northern coast of Africa, Ceuta remains one of Europe’s most sensitive migration gateways, with thousands attempting the dangerous crossing each year in search of safety and better economic opportunities.
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