CEUTA, SPAIN — In a stunning and dangerous journey, at least 54 children and around 30 adults reportedly swam through rough seas and heavy fog from Morocco to Ceuta, a Spanish enclave on the North African coast, according to Spanish television reports.

The swim, believed to have taken place under the cover of fog and poor weather, underscores the desperation of migrants and their families seeking a better life in Europe. Ceuta, along with its sister enclave Melilla, represents one of the few land borders between Africa and the European Union.

Authorities in Ceuta said many of the swimmers were exhausted and required immediate medical attention after reaching the shore. Emergency responders and humanitarian groups assisted the group, with many children showing signs of cold and fatigue.

While some of the adults are expected to face deportation procedures under existing migration laws, the fate of the children remains uncertain, as Spanish authorities typically evaluate the needs of unaccompanied minors separately under child protection policies.

The incident adds to ongoing tensions surrounding migration in the Mediterranean, with Spain often caught between humanitarian responsibility and border enforcement.