AMDH calls for answers on missing Ceuta migrants and Spain investigation

The Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH) has called for the immediate disclosure of the fate of people reported missing during attempts to reach occupied Ceuta. The organization urged the Spanish authorities to open an investigation into alleged physical assaults against migrants during the recent Ceuta migration crisis.

In a statement, AMDH expressed concern over the increasing number of people still missing after attempts to reach the Spanish-controlled enclave by land and sea. The organization stressed that families have the right to know what happened to their relatives and called for urgent action to determine the fate of those who remain unaccounted for.

According to the association, the death toll from the tragedy has reached at least 67, while warning that the figure could rise as search operations continue for missing migrants.

AMDH said the right to life is protected under international human rights law and argued that states have a legal duty to protect this right, especially in migration situations. It said the immediate priority should be locating every missing person, whether they managed to reach occupied Ceuta or disappeared during the crossing.

The organization also called for forensic examinations and DNA testing to identify unidentified bodies. It urged the creation of stronger information-sharing mechanisms between the relevant authorities to accelerate the identification process and provide answers to affected families.

AMDH further proposed the establishment of a joint Moroccan-Spanish coordination mechanism to facilitate the identification and repatriation of victims’ remains. It said such cooperation would allow families to recover and bury their relatives with dignity.

The association also appealed to the Spanish government to launch an independent investigation into allegations of violence against migrants in occupied Ceuta. It cited videos circulating on social media and media reports that allegedly show migrants being physically assaulted, including attacks involving bladed weapons. AMDH said an impartial investigation is necessary to determine responsibility and prevent impunity.

The statement ended by expressing condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to monitoring the case until the fate of all missing persons is clarified and the rights of victims and their relatives are fully respected.