Rabat – Spanish authorities said at least 69,500 irregular migrants have left the Spanish enclave of Ceuta for Morocco in the last 30 hours.
This came following the mass irregular crossings that took place in recent days, with a peak on Thursday.
EFE quoted security sources, stating the number could include people who entered the enclave before the Thursday mass crisis.
The Ministry of the Interior also installed barriers on the Tarajal border breakwater, including a 500-meter-long pneumatic barrier with a surface height of 30 to 70 centimeters and a submerged part up to one meter deep.
On July 30, the enclave witnessed the entry of at least 50,000, according to the Interior Ministry. Ceuta officials, however, said the number is estimated at more than 60,000. Authorities claimed today that this morning and last night passed normally at the border, with entries stopping completely.
Departures of irregular migrants continue, the report added. Morocco and Spain continue to intensify efforts to tackle the situation after the tragic events, which claimed the lives of more than 50 people.
Videos documented masses of migrants as they reached the enclave or attempted to reach Ceuta in recent days, including babies, children, and tens of thousands of migrants.
Many who returned and spoke to local media said they were subject to violence or mistreatment in Ceuta, while also emphasizing that they returned home voluntarily.
EFE reported earlier today that Moroccan authorities arrested 70 people for their alleged involvement in violent incidents during clashes amid Morocco’s mobilization to prevent them from crossing.
Videos showed youth and adults involved in throwing stones at police vehicles and setting them ablaze. Charges they face include arson, damage to public property, and attempted homicide.
