Hundreds of Migrants Cross into Ceuta from Morocco
Hundreds of migrants have crossed from Morocco into Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta over the past week, according to Ceuta's governor Juan Jesús Vivas.
Vivas described the influx as a calamity, stressing that local resources are overwhelmed. He urged the Spanish government to intervene, citing a humanitarian and security emergency. Spain's Interior Minister Fernando Grande‑Marlaska is expected to visit Ceuta on Friday to assess the situation.
The footage shows refugees swimming across the Strait of Gibraltar—often using inflatable rings—while others break through a fence gate. Ceuta sits on Morocco's northern coast, separated from the Spanish mainland by a narrow waterway that routinely attracts migrants seeking entry into Europe.
Figures vary. Spanish media estimate between 2,000 and 3,000 migrants entered Ceuta on a single day, though the Guardia Civil has not yet confirmed the count. Meanwhile, state broadcaster RTVE reports that “hundreds” crossed that day and says that roughly 1,500 people—mostly young Moroccan nationals—reached Ceuta in the last two weeks.
Vivas also highlighted that 60 bodies have been recovered at sea in recent months, and that reception centres for unaccompanied minors are operating at several times their intended capacity. The surge is reminiscent of the 8,000‑person influx in May 2021, which intensified diplomatic tensions with Morocco.
With Spain's Ceuta and Melilla enclaves forming the EU's only land border with Africa, authorities have bolstered security—enhanced surveillance, reinforced barriers, and strengthened bilateral relations with Morocco. Yet the pressure on migrants continues, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive policy responses.
