Vatican News
The situation in Ceuta remains difficult following the mass influx of migrants from Morocco who crossed the border of the Spanish enclave on July 30 and 31. The unprecedented events have led to the deaths of numerous people.
According to security service sources cited by the EFE agency, approximately 73,500 migrants have already returned to Morocco, and the death toll stands at 71. However, the Spanish Ministry of the Interior does not confirm these figures. Officially, it reports over 48,300 returns, while estimating the number of people who crossed into Ceuta at 50,000–60,000.
Floating barrier at the border
Spain has installed a floating barrier made of buoys and steel cables on the maritime border separating Ceuta from Morocco.
The barrier is intended to deter further attempts to cross by swimming and to limit the possibility of reaching the enclave’s coast.
King of Spain: this cannot happen again
“Such events cannot happen again,” stated King Felipe VI of Spain in a statement issued by the Royal Palace.
The monarch has been following the situation “with great concern and indignation.” He emphasized that the state must guarantee security and take action to prevent the tragic deaths of any more people.
