(Report) Unprecedented Confrontations at the Melilla Crossing: Preliminary Report of CNDH's Fact-Finding Commission
On June 24, 2022, some 2000 migrants attempted a massive crossing to Melilia, mainly via the Barrio Chino crossing area (Nador-Melilia). The tragic incident was unprecedented in nature, tactics, scope, number of migrants attempting a mass crossing, number of victims, casualties, etc.
23 migrants died and 217 people were injured, including 140 law enforcement officers and 77 migrants. Law enforcement officers used tear gas and other nonlethal weapons to block the massive attempts. Migrants used stones, sticks and sharp tools to storm the crossing station and breach the fence, separating Nador and Melilia.
The CNHD reiterates hereby its profound sadness at the loss of life and the reported injuries and its deepest condolences to the families.
Immediately following the tragic incident, the Chairperson of Morocco’s National Human Rights Institution (le Conseil national des droits de l’Homme - CNDH) commissioned a fact-finding mission to visit the city of Nador and the neighbouring districts and to meet with all stakeholders, including authorities, civil society, and migrants.
The fact-finding mission gathered facts and information regarding the tragic and violent incident.
In a press conference, held on July 13th, the CNDH published the preliminary findings and conclusions of its fact-finding mission, entitled: