Around 70,000 to 72,000 people attempted to cross into Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa, during late July and early August 2026, according to Spanish and independent sources [1, 2]. Morocco's Interior Ministry reported a lower figure, estimating nearly 40,000 crossings, revealing a discrepancy in totals [3].

At least 88 migrants died near Ceuta's border, with an additional 11 deaths recorded inside Morocco linked to the crossing attempts [1, 3]. Many families in northern Morocco remain anxious as hundreds gathered in the border town of Fnideq searching for missing relatives after the deadly incidents [1, 2, 3]. Hadijja, a mother of a missing migrant, said, "I have just one son. I haven’t had any news of him; he’s not answering his mobile phone. This is a tragedy." [1]

Spanish authorities returned the majority of those who crossed back to Morocco within 48 hours through cooperation with Moroccan officials [1, 3]. Moroccan security forces remain heavily deployed in Fnideq to coordinate returns and prevent new sea crossings, continuing their efforts as of August 3 [3].

Some migrants left Ceuta voluntarily due to hunger, fear, and scarce job opportunities, while others said police forcibly escorted them back to Morocco. Abselam, 19, a migrant from Kenitra, described his experience: "I was hungry for days and filled with fear. It’s not worth it, there aren’t jobs for everyone." Simo, 21, from Tetuan, said, "The police surrounded a group of us and escorted us all the way towards the border. We didn’t really have a choice." [1]

Videos have circulated showing numerous minors held at a reception center in Ceuta, sparking legal debates in Spain over repatriation procedures [3].

Between August 4 and 5, hundreds continued to gather in Fnideq, searching for missing family members. Spanish Interior Minister confirmed the majority of migrants had been returned [1].

Moroccan forces remain on high alert in the border region, managing migrant returns and security. The situation remains tense as families await further information about missing migrants.