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Ceuta migration crisis: At least 57 dead, 48,300 migrants return to Morocco

An estimated 50,000 to 60,000 migrants crossed from Morocco into Spain's Ceuta by land and sea in an unprecedented two-day surge. At least 57 people died during the crossings.

By Friday evening, Spanish authorities said about 48,300 had returned to Morocco. According to media reports, many were drawn by false online claims that Spain would provide shelter, visas or a route to the mainland, only to find reception facilities overwhelmed and no way to continue their journey.

Spain deployed troops and tightened border controls, while Moroccan police resumed intercepting people attempting new crossings. The surge has highlighted both humanitarian and political challenges at Europe's southern border.

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