Spanish officials estimate that about 49,000 migrants have entered the North African enclave of Ceuta from Morocco in the last 24 hours. This figure could represent more than half of Ceuta's population, which stands at approximately 83,600.
Videos and images showed thousands of people swimming into the city on Thursday, with local media reporting continued crossings overnight. Officials also state that at least 18 people have died in recent days while attempting to reach the territory.
Among those who crossed illegally in the last 24 hours, at least 7,000 are reported to be minors. This influx follows a recent ruling by Spain's Supreme Court that migrants intercepted at sea while trying to reach Ceuta or Melilla, another Spanish enclave, cannot be summarily returned to Morocco.