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A physics graduate, a soccer player, a teen who couldn't swim: They died in the Ceuta migrant surge
Moroccan and Spanish authorities blamed social media rumors and smuggling networks as more than 70,000 migrants tried to reach Ceuta, officials said.
On July 31, a massive migration surge into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta resulted in at least 90 deaths, according to official figures, marking the deadliest crisis between Morocco and Spain.
Fueled by poverty, misinformation, and lack of opportunities, more than 70,000 migrants attempted to cross into Ceuta last month, driven by rumors that Morocco's border with Spain was open.
Soccer player Hamza Haibouri earned around $540 monthly, while physics graduate Ayoub Akbili earned about $421 monthly; both men died attempting to reach Europe for better opportunities.
Authorities in Ceuta completed 82 autopsies, but families face significant hurdles repatriating bodies, including costs of 2,500 euros and bureaucratic delays with the Moroccan government.
Despite Morocco's projected 4.5% economic growth and $6.6 billion in remittances this year, policymakers face persistent challenges creating high-wage jobs to stem migration pressure.
CASABLANCA, Morocco (AP) — Ayoub Akbili needed money for his mother’s surgery. Hamza Haibouri wanted a chance to start a professional career in football. Abdelouahed Iken pursued the brilliant life that a friend posted on Facebook since...