At least 26 sub-Saharan African migrants died in eastern Morocco near the border with Algeria, local authorities reported on May 23, 2026. The incident occurred in the Oujda region, a known transit point for migrants attempting to reach Europe.
The victims, whose nationalities have not yet been confirmed, were found in a remote area. Initial reports suggest the deaths may have been caused by dehydration and exhaustion, though investigations are ongoing.
Morocco's Interior Ministry stated that rescue teams were dispatched to the scene, but no survivors were found. The country has seen an increase in migrant crossings in recent months, with many attempting dangerous routes through the Sahara Desert.
Human rights organizations have called for better protection of migrants' rights and improved search-and-rescue operations in the region. The United Nations has also urged neighboring countries to cooperate on migration management.
