World
Archived — This article has been archived. The information may be outdated.
Ceuta migrant crossing death toll rises to 72
The Hindu··3 Aug
At least 72 people died during the mass rush of an estimated 60,000 migrants into Spain's Ceuta enclave from Morocco between July 29 and 31, officials said, up from a previous toll of 67. Most who crossed have since returned to Morocco voluntarily, while migrant minors remain in a disused industrial park, with some sleeping on nearby pavements.
Prism
What It Means For You
- Anyone following European migration policy sees a fresh flashpoint as Ceuta's crossing becomes one of the largest into the enclave in its history.
- Travelers between Spain and Italy should watch for effects of Italy's Schengen suspension, which could add friction to cross border movement in the region.
- People following humanitarian concerns can track the fate of migrant minors still living in a disused industrial park near Ceuta's border.
What's Happening
- At least 72 people died during a mass rush of roughly 60,000 migrants into Spain's Ceuta enclave from Morocco between July 29 and 31.
- Most migrants who crossed have voluntarily returned to Morocco within 48 hours, though small groups and unaccompanied minors remain near the border.
- Italy suspended its Schengen free travel pact with Spain over the crisis, while Spain announced plans for a new containment fence at the border.
A Slice Of Europe In Africa Under Pressure Again
- Ceuta is a Spanish enclave on Africa's northern coast bordering Morocco, making it a recurring flashpoint for migration between the two continents.
- Spain has blamed criminal gangs for spreading rumours that a recent Supreme Court ruling on immigration would ease passage for migrants, fuelling the rush.
- A new 500 metre floating security boom now reinforces the maritime border, adding to existing barriers after the enclave's largest ever mass crossing.
all-newstop-storiestrending-now
