Refugees drowned at the Spanish enclave

melilla - Nearly twenty boat refugees drowned in the vicinity of the Spanish enclave of Melilla in North Africa. The lifeless bodies floated on the water and, according to Spanish newspapers, were discovered by a passing passenger ship.

How many people were present on the boat and if there are still missing is still unknown. According to the Spanish aid organization Proactiva Open Arms, 47 people were on board and about 25 people are still missing.

The dead were salvaged by Spanish and Moroccan rescue services a few kilometers from the coast. Helicopters are searching for possible survivors.

The refugees probably came from sub-Saharan countries and hoped to reach Spanish territory.

Spain has two enclaves in the north of Africa surrounded by Morocco. In addition to Melilla, Ceuta is located on the street of Gibraltar. Melilla is located 250 kilometers east of Ceuta.