Nine migrants drown off the coast of Morocco

Moroccan soldiers on a boat attempt to board a would be migrant on Moroccan waters near the border fence that separates Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta from neighbouring Morocco March 2, 2014. REUTERS/Juan Medina

MADRID (Reuters) - Moroccan rescue teams recovered the bodies of nine migrants who drowned off the coast of Tangier and rescued another 21 who were trying to reach Spain on a small craft, Spanish authorities said on Friday. Three infants were among the dead, Spanish media said. Tens of thousands of migrants make the dangerous journey from North Africa to Europe every year, often in crowded, unseaworthy boats. Hundreds die in the attempt.