Over 50 children, 30 adults swim from Morocco to Spanish enclave of Ceuta

At least 54 children and around 30 adults swam from Morocco to the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in rough seas and fog.

The swimmers, according to Spanish media reports, made the dangerous journey in poor weather conditions.

Spanish TV channel RTVE aired footage showing Civil Guard boats making repeated rescue efforts, while some migrants managed to reach shore on their own.

Most of the children were Moroccan nationals. They have been taken to temporary shelters in Ceuta.

Authorities in the enclave appealed to Spain’s central government for support.

“Don’t leave us alone. This is a matter of state. This has to be resolved,” said Juan Rivas of the Ceuta regional government.

Such crossings are not new. On August 26 last year, hundreds of migrants swam to Ceuta during thick mist, according to local police.

In 2021, one boy was famously seen floating on empty plastic bottles in an attempt to reach the enclave.

Spain’s two enclaves on the Moroccan coast — Ceuta and Melilla — mark the European Union’s only land borders with Africa.

They frequently witness attempts by migrants hoping to reach Europe.

Moroccan nationals are typically returned immediately unless they are underage or seek asylum.

Migrants from other countries are housed in special centers and usually released within a few days.

Three years ago, a mass crossing attempt in Melilla led to tragedy with at least 23 people died during a stampede as about 2,000 migrants stormed the border fence.

(CNN)

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