European Union interior ministers on Tuesday called for tougher action against migrant smuggling networks and stronger return policies after around 72,000 migrants entered Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta last week, triggering alarm across the 27-member bloc.

Spain rushed to reinforce its border as European leaders debated new controls after thousands crossed into Ceuta

The mass arrival exposed divisions over migration policy, with 22 European Union states calling for a coordinated response.

Madrid says 70,000 of the 72,000 that crossed into Ceuta have returned home