Spain has deployed military personnel to its North African enclave of Ceuta after thousands of migrants crossed the border from Morocco in a massive influx that left at least nine people dead, authorities said, as Madrid moved to restore order amid an escalating border crisis.
The decision came after local authorities appealed to the central government for urgent assistance, saying security forces were overwhelmed as large crowds breached the frontier into the Spanish territory.
The Spanish government said Armed Forces personnel would support the Civil Guard in maintaining security in Ceuta. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska were scheduled to visit the enclave on Friday to assess the situation and coordinate the government's response.
Officials and security personnel described the situation as unprecedented. Rachid Sbihi, head of the association representing Spain's Civil Guard officers in Ceuta, said the border had "totally collapsed", with thousands of migrants entering the enclave. He described the conditions as "absolute chaos", adding that it was impossible to provide an accurate count of those who had crossed.
Also read: 11 killed, 600 displaced in Spain wildfire
According to rights activists in northern Morocco, the Tarajal border crossing was opened under unusual circumstances, allowing large numbers of people to enter Ceuta. Most of those crossing were Moroccan nationals, primarily young men, although families with women and small children were also among the crowds.
Authorities confirmed that at least nine people died during Thursday's crossings, though officials did not disclose the exact circumstances surrounding the fatalities. Bodies were reportedly seen floating offshore, underscoring the dangers faced by migrants attempting to reach the Spanish enclave. The deaths add to dozens of migrant fatalities recorded this year along routes to Ceuta.
The latest crisis follows an increase in attempts by migrants to swim into the enclave earlier this week. While Moroccan authorities have not publicly commented on the incident, Spain's Interior Ministry said Rabat was closely coordinating with Madrid. Moroccan security forces have intercepted numerous people attempting to cross, and both countries have agreed to work together to return those who entered Ceuta illegally.
The border turmoil also sparked diplomatic tensions within Europe. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni warned that Italy could consider extraordinary measures, including the possible suspension of the Schengen Area agreement with Spain, if the surge in migrant arrivals continues.
In a post on X, Sánchez said his government remained in close contact with Moroccan authorities to restore stability and pledged a swift response to the unfolding crisis.
Follow us
