Massive Migrant Departures from Sebta to Morocco
As of August 2, 2026, Spanish police have reported that approximately 73,500 migrant departures from Sebta to Morocco have been documented since the onset of a significant migration wave on July 30, 2026. It is important to note, however, that this figure does not necessarily indicate 73,500 distinct individuals, as some migrants may have crossed the border multiple times. Reports suggest that various groups remain in the occupied enclave, particularly in peripheral neighborhoods and wooded areas, unwilling to return to Morocco voluntarily. The exact number of these individuals is difficult to ascertain, with police observing small clusters of three to five people scattered across different locations.
The border crossing at Bab Sebta returned to a state of calm on the morning of August 2, with no new attempts to enter through the border wall. A small group did attempt to swim to the enclave but was intercepted by the Spanish military. This tranquility follows several days of unprecedented migration crisis in Sebta, which saw over 50,000 people attempting to enter from Morocco during the initial wave. The Spanish Ministry of the Interior confirmed that newly installed maritime barriers are fully operational, consisting of a 500-meter inflatable barrier designed to prevent further crossings. This barrier stands between 30 to 70 centimeters above water and extends down to one meter below the surface, accompanied by a first line of buoys provided by the navy.
While security measures have been somewhat relaxed since August 1, the army continues to support the Guardia Civil in maintaining order. Spanish government representative in Sebta, Miguel Ángel Pérez, stated that the approximately 3,000 security personnel and military forces deployed would remain in place for as long as necessary. He indicated that the situation is gradually normalizing but noted that there is still a long way to go. This current state of affairs is a stark contrast to the chaotic first 24 hours of the crisis, which marked the arrival of a staggering number of individuals from Morocco. Additionally, Pérez reported that the number of bodies recovered at sea has risen to 72, while the Unified Association of Civil Guards estimates the death toll may exceed 100, with nearly 60,000 individuals attempting to cross on July 30 during what is considered the most severe migration crisis in Sebta's history.
As reported by medias24.com.
