Morocco releases official Ceuta crossing figures and reaffirms migration cooperation
Morocco’s Interior Ministry has released official figures on the recent mass migration attempts toward the Spanish enclaves, stating that approximately 40,000 people headed toward Ceuta and around 1,135 attempted to reach Melilla. The Ceuta crossing figures differ from higher estimates circulated by some media outlets.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Rachid El Khalfi, Moroccan authorities recorded one accidental death after a person fell from a rocky area near Ceuta, as well as 10 deaths caused by drowning. The ministry added that it remains in contact with Spanish authorities through official channels to verify reports concerning additional fatalities, including the identities and nationalities of those involved.
Spanish authorities have reported the recovery of 72 bodies, while officials in Ceuta have placed the death toll at 88. They noted that several recovered bodies were in an advanced state of decomposition, suggesting that some victims may have died during earlier crossing attempts rather than during the most recent incident.
The Interior Ministry reiterated Morocco’s commitment to close cooperation with Spain in addressing irregular migration. It described the Kingdom as a reliable international partner that continues to strengthen efforts aimed at combating migrant smuggling networks and managing migration flows.
The ministry also stressed that Moroccan authorities will continue taking the necessary measures to preserve public order, secure the country’s borders, and protect both people and property.
At the same time, the government confirmed that an official investigation remains underway to establish responsibilities linked to the recent events.
