Following a massive surge of arrivals, thousands of individuals are leaving the Spanish North African enclave of Ceuta to head back to Morocco. Spanish officials reported that 60,000 migrants crossed the border over several days, though a significant portion of that population has already departed. According to Spain’s Interior Minister, at least 67 people perished during the chaotic migration event.
On Friday and Saturday, buses began transporting people from the border town of Fnideq toward destinations including Tangier, Tetouan, and Casablanca. A Moroccan official indicated that those sent back from Spain are being relocated home via bus or rail. The Fnideq border area and surrounding hills, which saw violent confrontations and rock-throwing on Friday, are now reportedly under control.
Spanish authorities confirmed that approximately 48,000 of the 60,000 arrivals had made their way back across the border by Friday evening. Rachid Aouchari, a 32-year-old migrant who was turned back, expressed regret over the journey and a desire to return to his family. Earlier, the situation was marked by intense clashes, with police utilizing tear gas and water cannons against those attempting to enter the enclave by swimming or walking.
