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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.
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31 Articles

Santa Maria TimesSanta Maria Times
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Independent EspañolIndependent Español
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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...

·Calhoun, United States
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Associated Press NewsAssociated Press News
+25 Reposted by 25 other sources
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A physics graduate, a soccer player, a teen who couldn't swim: They died in the Ceuta migrant surge

In a tragic attempt to reach Europe, dozens of Moroccans died trying to cross into Spain. Ayoub Akbili, Hamza Haibouri, and Abdelouahed Iken were among them, driven by dreams of a better life.

·New York, United States
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abc News broke the news in New York, United States on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
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