Spain said the mass influx of migrants into its North African enclave of Ceuta has largely subsided after Spanish and Moroccan authorities reinforced border security, with officials estimating that around half of those who crossed have already returned to Morocco.
The unprecedented surge saw an estimated 60,000 people enter Ceuta by land and sea over several days, prompting Spain to deploy additional military and police forces while accelerating the processing and repatriation of migrants who entered irregularly.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez described the mass crossing as a "violation of Spain's territorial integrity" and vowed a swift response, while both Spanish and Moroccan coast guards intensified patrols to prevent further crossings. At least 19 bodies were recovered from the waters during the crisis, underscoring the deadly risks of the journey. The European Union also backed Spain's response, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen calling the scenes "unacceptable" and saying the bloc was working with Moroccan authorities to curb dangerous crossings, dismantle smuggling networks, and speed up migrant returns.
Video: Reuters
