Ceuta Crisis Deepens: 37,500 Migrants Already Returned to Morocco

As of Friday morning, 37,500 migrants who crossed the border illegally into Ceuta have already been returned to Morocco, according to Euronews. Overall, estimates suggest that between 50,000 to 60,000 people have illegally crossed the border.

At least 34 people have died while attempting to swim from Morocco to Ceuta. The massive influx of migrants has put a strain on Spanish authorities and the residents of the autonomous city, which has a population of about 83,000.

On Thursday, Spain and Morocco agreed to expedite the return of migrants who have illegally entered the enclave. The scale of refugee arrivals has prompted the Spanish government to send troops to strengthen security in Ceuta.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visited the enclave, where he referred to the massive border crossings as a violation of Spain's territorial integrity. During the night, clashes occurred between Moroccan police and hundreds of people who continued trying to reach Ceuta.