Spain has reinforced security in its North African enclave of Ceuta after thousands of migrants, most of them Moroccans, crossed into the territory from Morocco in one of the largest mass border crossings in recent years.
The migrants entered Ceuta by swimming around border barriers, using inflatable tubes and, in some cases, forcing their way through border gates, overwhelming local security personnel. Authorities estimate that between 2,000 and 3,000 people reached the enclave within hours, although officials are still verifying the exact number.
The Spanish government responded by deploying an additional 200 police officers and 60 military personnel to support local authorities as reception centres quickly exceeded capacity. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez was also expected to visit Ceuta to assess the situation.
The humanitarian crisis has claimed lives, with at least nine bodies recovered in Ceuta following the crossings. Many migrants, including families and children, attempted the dangerous journey by sea despite the risks. Rescue teams, the Civil Guard and the Red Cross were mobilised to assist those in distress.
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Moroccan security forces reportedly tried to prevent the crossings by using water cannons and tightening border controls, while clashes were also reported near the Beni Ansar crossing into Spain’s other North African enclave, Melilla.
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The latest influx has reignited debate over Spain’s migration policies. Authorities say criminal trafficking networks may have encouraged the crossings after a recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling limited the immediate return of migrants intercepted after arriving by sea. However, the exact trigger for the sudden surge remains under investigation.
Ceuta’s regional government has appealed for stronger support from Madrid, warning that shelters and public services have been overwhelmed by the unexpected arrival of thousands of migrants.
The incident has also revived memories of the 2021 migration crisis, when thousands crossed from Morocco into Ceuta during diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
