Spain races to secure Ceuta border with floating barrier after mass crossings and 67 deaths

Spanish authorities began installing a 500-metre floating barrier off the coast of Ceuta after a migrant surge from Morocco left at least 67 dead.

The pneumatic barrier, standing 30-70 cm above water and extending 1 metre below, is being laid on the Tarajal breakwater, reinforced by anchored naval buoys.

An estimated 50,000 to 60,000 people crossed into Ceuta from Thursday; over 48,000 returned to Morocco within 48 hours, per Spain's Interior Ministry.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the barrier to strengthen the border, citing it as a physical if visual containment measure.

Italy suspended Schengen arrangements with Spain for one month, while 22 EU governments called for an emergency meeting; opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo dismissed the barrier as inadequate.