Morocco and Spain have issued sharply different casualty figures following the deadly mass attempt by migrants to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, highlighting growing uncertainty over one of the worst migration disasters in the region. While Morocco’s Interior Ministry said 11 people died during the crossing, Spanish authorities maintained that the number of fatalities had risen to 72, with search and recovery efforts continuing along the coastline.

Moroccan officials attributed the incident to the spread of false information on social media, the activities of organised human trafficking networks and a surge of people attempting the dangerous journey by land and sea. The ministry said investigations had been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and to identify those responsible for encouraging or facilitating the illegal crossings. Authorities also pledged to prosecute anyone found to have exploited vulnerable migrants.

Spanish authorities, however, said rescue teams continued to recover bodies after the unprecedented influx overwhelmed emergency services in Ceuta. Thousands of migrants reportedly entered the enclave during the mass crossing, stretching reception facilities and prompting an extensive humanitarian and security response. The differing casualty figures have intensified calls for an independent assessment of the disaster as authorities on both sides continue their investigations.

The tragedy has reignited debate over migration management between Europe and North Africa, with both governments facing renewed scrutiny over border security and the activities of smuggling networks. Officials in Morocco and Spain have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation to combat human trafficking, improve border control and prevent similar incidents, while humanitarian organisations continue to urge safer migration pathways to reduce the risk of further loss of life.