Around 60 African migrants risked life and limb to scale the fence separating Morocco from the Spanish enclave of Melilla as dawn broke on Wednesday. <br /><br />But their joy was short-lived. They sought refuge in local houses, and it wasn’t long before Spanish police tracked down 20 of them.<br /><br />Spanish media report a total of 450 migrants had attempted to cross the fence, leading to clashes with border guards. Spain reported six officers were injured.<br /><br />Melilla and Ceuta are the EU’s only land borders with Africa and thousands of migrants attempt the dangerous journey every year.<br /><br />In 2013, Spain reinforced its 12 kilometre long fence with barbed wire to ward off migrants which drew criticism from human rights groups. <br /><br />Those who crossed overnight received medical attention for the injuries sustained scaling the barrier.<br /><br />They face an uncertain future. Those who escaped capture may attempt a treacherous boat journey to the mainland. The detainees may be sent back to their respective countries or could file for asylum. For now they are left in limbo.
