Overview
- Security and rescue teams scrambled after a surge of people reached Ceuta by sea and land, leaving municipal reception centres full and hundreds sleeping outdoors.
- Spain sent military personnel to reinforce the Civil Guard and maritime rescue units to restore order and assist exhausted arrivals.
- Spanish officials said nine bodies were recovered during the crossings while total arrival counts remain contested and some large government estimates were later removed.
- Authorities and Madrid blame people‑smuggling networks for exploiting a recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling that bars summary returns of sea arrivals, complicating rapid expulsions.
- The crisis has provoked sharp domestic political attacks and international pressure, with Italy urging Schengen action and neighbouring states tightening border checks.