Spain Says Migrants Returning From Ceuta as Death Toll Reaches 57 After Border Rush

Spain says the majority of the more than 50,000 migrants who rushed into the Ceuta enclave since Thursday are now returning voluntarily to Morocco. Officials confirmed 57 bodies have been recovered on the Spanish side, with some victims drowning and others crushed while attempting to climb the breakwater near the border fence. By Friday evening, around 48,300 people had already crossed back.

Clashes Erupt at Border Gates

Moroccan forces used batons, tear gas, and water cannons to push back crowds trying to enter Ceuta, with a bus and several vehicles set ablaze during the chaos. Spanish military vehicles lined sections of the border as many migrants watched from nearby hills, unable to cross.

Diplomatic Fallout Spreads Across Europe

Italy announced it is suspending Schengen border-free travel arrangements with Spain over the crisis, a move Madrid says breaches EU treaties. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, visiting Ceuta, called the surge a violation of sovereignty and pledged to speed up expulsions.

Several returnees told Reuters they lacked food and shelter after crossing, with one young man from Tangier saying he was already heading back after going without a proper meal.