EU Concerned About Deaths at Moroccan-Spanish Border, in Contact With Local Authorities

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The EU is seriously concerned about the deaths and injuries at the Melilla border crossing and remains in close contact with Spanish and Moroccan authorities, EU spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Nabila Massrali said on Monday.

On Friday, around 2,000 migrants gathered at the Moroccan-Spanish border in Melilla. The migrants were reportedly armed with sticks and hooks, which they used against security officers. According to Spanish media reports, four security officers and 45 migrants died in the border clashes on Friday. According to the Moroccan Association of Human Rights, 27 migrants had died. A total of 133 migrants have managed to enter Melilla, according to Spanish authorities.

"We are in touch with the Moroccan authorities of course to understand clearly the detailed circumstances of this situation and we coordinate closely with the Spanish authorities as well," Nabila Massrali told the EU Commission Midday Briefing.

She noted that violence and deaths at the Moroccan-Spanish border crossing are of a "serious cause of concern."

The spokesperson also extended condolences to the families of migrants and security officers who lost their lives and were wounded on the border.