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The United Nations has said it is "deeply disturbed" by the deaths of at least 23 African migrants who were among dozens trying to cross from Morocco to the Spanish enclave of Melilla, and has called for an independent inquiry. African migrants were reportedly beaten with batons, kicked, and shoved, by Moroccan officials, and the police were using tear gas. The Moroccan authorities say people were crushed to death following a stampede after a section of border fence was cut open, while others may have been killed after falling from a border fence.They also say that two police officers were killed and many more were injured.

Disturbing video, appearing to be footage of the incident, circulated on social media showing dozen of migrants packed together on the ground near the border, with bodies piled on top of each other and bloodstains.

Melilla is Spanish territory, but on the North African coast some 150km (90 miles) from the Spanish mainland. It and its sister city Ceuta are the only land borders between Africa and Europe, and both have in recent years become a focal point for mostly sub-Saharan migrants attempting to reach Europe.

Journalist Souad Anouar, based in the Moroccan capital Rabat, explained to Focus on Africa's Paul Bakibinga what is being reported about what happened, and why Morocco is enforcing an intensive crackdown on migrants trying to enter Spain.

Photo: An African migrant is pictured at the temporary centre for immigrants and asylum seekers in the Spanish enclave of Melilla. Credit: Getty Images.

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