Hundreds of Migrants Wading Across Ceuta’s Border Fence Using Inflatables

Tue Sep 08 2026 21:32:56 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hundreds of migrants crossed Ceuta’s fence by swimming and inflatable devices, straining local services and prompting calls for Spanish intervention.

On Thursday, thousands of migrants surged across Spain’s Ceuta border fence, using swimming and inflatable rafts to breach the water gap that separates the enclave from Morocco. The influx—estimated between 2,000 and 3,000—has overwhelmed Ceuta’s emergency services, prompting Mayor‑In‐Chief Juan Jesús Vivas to appeal to Madrid for assistance. Reports describe migrants swimming around the fence and breaking through a gate, underscoring Ceuta’s role as a key entry point for those seeking entry into Europe. Authorities have yet to confirm official numbers, while the humanitarian situation grows increasingly urgent.

Hundreds of Migrants Wading Across Ceuta’s Border Fence Using Inflatables

Live footage captured by the BBC shows thousands of migrants swimming and using inflatable rafts as they breach the fence that separates Ceuta from Morocco.

The incidents took place on Thursday, with Mayor‑In‑Chief Juan Jesús Vivas saying the surge had overwhelmed local services and urging Madrid to step in.

Media reports estimate 2,000 to 3,000 arrivals, though the Spanish Guardia Civil has not yet confirmed the figure.

Ceuta has long been a hotspot for migrants seeking entry into Europe, and authorities warn the humanitarian risk is mounting.