Mass Border Rush Leaves Nine Dead Near Ceuta

Thousands of migrants gathered overnight in the Moroccan border town of Fnideq near the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. Moroccan security forces deployed water cannons at border crossings, increased patrols and repeatedly pushed back people attempting to reach the border fence.

Nevertheless, according to Spanish public broadcaster TVE, between 2,000 and 3,000 migrants entered Ceuta on Thursday.

Clashes broke out during the operation. Reuters reporters at the border saw a burned out bus and seven burned out vehicles. Authorities in Ceuta said nine bodies had been recovered from the sea, although the death toll may rise as search efforts continue. Although the border crossing was closed, many migrants attempted to bypass the fence along the coastline or reach the Spanish enclave by sea.

More migrants, including women, children and unaccompanied minors from northern Morocco and sub Saharan African countries, continued to arrive in Fnideq throughout the night. Roads leading into the town became congested as security forces repeatedly repelled coordinated attempts to breach the border. One migrant told Reuters he feared for his life during a stampede on the narrow coastal road.

Ceuta and Melilla are the European Union's only land borders with Africa and have long been focal points for migrants attempting to reach Europe.

(Reuters, Lud)