Spain has deployed troops and additional police officers to its North African enclave after thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco in one of the largest surges since the 2021 border crisis.
An estimated 49,000 migrants entered Ceuta in 24 hours via land and sea, while another 300 to 400 people crossed into the nearby enclave of Melilla, according to local authorities.
The two Spanish territories, located on Morocco's northern coast, represent the European Union's only land border with Africa and have long been key entry points for migrants seeking to reach Europe.
Deadly crossing sparks emergency response
The surge turned deadly, with at least 18 people reported to have drowned while attempting to swim to Ceuta. Video footage shared online showed hundreds of migrants using inner tubes and rubber rings to cross the water, while others forced their way through a border gate into the city.
