Ceuta Crisis: Death Toll Rises to 72 After Mass Migrant Crossing

At least 72 people have died following the largest recorded mass migrant crossing into Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta, according to local authorities. Tens of thousands of migrants, estimated at around 60,000, crossed into the Spanish territory from neighbouring Morocco between Wednesday and Friday, with many swimming around the border barrier separating the two territories. Officials said most of those who entered Ceuta have since voluntarily returned to Morocco, while Spanish security forces continue to maintain a heightened presence across the enclave.

Miguel Angel Perez Triano, the Spanish government's delegate to Ceuta, confirmed that the death toll had risen to 72, up from the previously reported 67 fatalities. Spanish police and military personnel remained deployed across the territory on Sunday, although the situation had largely stabilised. Only small groups of migrants were still present in Ceuta, with authorities continuing patrols and monitoring the border to prevent further large-scale crossings.

Emergency response teams and Civil Guard personnel remained active along the coastline, where inflatable rescue boats searched waters near the border barrier extending into the Mediterranean Sea. Spain has also reinforced security by installing a new 500-metre floating barrier in the area. Authorities were seen escorting migrants back to the border crossing for their return to Morocco, while cleanup crews worked to remove clothing, rubbish and other debris left behind during the unprecedented influx.

Also Read: Ceuta Border Crisis: 67 Dead, Spain Installs 500-Metre Sea Barrier

The mass migration has triggered a diplomatic and political crisis across Europe. Spain has accused criminal networks of spreading false rumours that a recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling on immigration would make it easier for migrants to enter and remain in the country. Some analysts have also suggested Morocco may have relaxed border controls to increase diplomatic pressure on Spain amid broader regional tensions, although Moroccan authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the latest developments.

The crisis has prompted strong reactions from European governments. The European Union announced it will hold a video conference on Tuesday after 22 member states jointly called for an urgent coordinated response to address the situation and prevent further uncontrolled crossings. Meanwhile, Italy temporarily suspended its Schengen agreement with Spain for one month, limiting visa-free movement between the two countries. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticised what he described as the "selfish" response of some European partners in a letter addressed to EU leaders.

Pope Leo XIV also expressed concern over the humanitarian situation during his Sunday prayers, calling for a solution based on peace, stability and justice. The latest events have renewed focus on migration pressures at Europe's external borders and the challenges of balancing humanitarian obligations with border security. Authorities in Ceuta continue to monitor the situation closely as investigations into the fatalities proceed and diplomatic efforts continue to address the broader migration crisis.

Also Read: Spain Installs Sea Barrier in Ceuta After 67 Migrant Deaths