The death toll from the mass migrant crossing into Spain’s enclave of Ceuta has risen sharply to 67, according to the Spanish government.
Authorities confirmed on Saturday that the victims include those who drowned and others who died in the crush during the chaotic influx from Morocco.
This represents a significant escalation from earlier reports that had placed the number of fatalities at nine.
The surge in casualties has intensified diplomatic pressure on Madrid from within the European Union.
Several member states are now calling for Spain to be expelled from the Schengen area unless it regains control of the border situation.
The threat of expulsion underscores the severity with which Brussels views the breach of external border security.