At least 15 people have died during a mass attempt by migrants to cross into the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, according to Spanish and Moroccan authorities. The incident occurred on [date], when hundreds of migrants tried to scale the border fences or swim around them. Spanish officials reported that 1,500 migrants were intercepted, while Moroccan authorities said they had stopped many others.
The deadliest events took place near Beni Ansar, a town adjacent to Melilla, where clashes broke out between migrants and security forces. Witnesses reported that some migrants were injured or killed in the chaos, though exact circumstances remain unclear. The Spanish government has expressed condolences and called for an investigation.
In response, Morocco has agreed to take back all migrants who successfully entered the enclaves, under a bilateral agreement with Spain. The repatriation process has already begun, with hundreds being returned to Morocco. The Spanish interior minister stated that the priority is to restore order and ensure the safety of all involved.
The incident has sparked concern among human rights groups, who have called for better treatment of migrants and for addressing the root causes of migration. The Spanish government has defended its border security measures, while also pledging to work with Morocco and the EU to manage migration flows more humanely.