While the tally is the highest ever compared to numerous attempts by migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, at least 23 migrants died and 140 police were injured, according to

Moroccan authorities, during an attempt to enter the Spanish enclave of Melilla in Moroccan territory, which constitutes the European Union's only land border with the African continent.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Chadian Musa Faki Mohamed, denounced the "violent and degrading treatment of African migrants" during a mass incursion into the Spanish enclave of Melilla on Friday and called for an investigation into this tragedy.

Musa Faki tweeted: "I express my deep feelings and concern at the violent and degrading treatment of African migrants trying to cross an international border between Morocco and Spain."

"I call for an immediate investigation of this case and remind all States of their obligations under international law to treat all migrants with dignity and to place their safety and human rights first, while limiting any excessive use of force."