Two Detained After French Police Ground Aeroplane Suspected of Human Trafficking
ICARO Media Group
French police have detained two individuals after grounding an Airbus A340 flight carrying approximately 300 Indian citizens, including 13 unaccompanied minors, on suspicion of human trafficking. The flight had originated from the United Arab Emirates and was en route to South America before making a scheduled technical stopover at Vatry airport in eastern France.
The decision to detain the plane was made after authorities received an anonymous tip-off, indicating that the passengers on board were likely victims of human trafficking. As a result, the Paris prosecutor's office initiated the investigation and arrested two men among the passengers.
The 15 crew members of the Legend Airlines charter flight, which is based in Romania, were questioned by the authorities but have since been released. A lawyer for the airline noted that the crew members are deeply shaken by the incident, as they believe they have committed no offense.
The Paris prosecutor's office has commenced identity checks on all 303 passengers, in addition to investigating the conditions of their transportation and the purpose of their journey. Preliminary information suggests that some of the passengers may have intended to travel to Central America with the aim of attempting illegal entry into the United States or Canada. Authorities are working to verify these claims.
Upon landing in France, the passengers were initially kept on board the aircraft. However, they were later allowed to disembark and provided with individual beds in the terminal building. The local authorities have confirmed that the passengers will be staying at the airport overnight on Friday.
The Indian embassy in France has been notified of the situation by the Paris authorities. The embassy has yet to release a statement addressing the matter.
It is important to note that human trafficking is a serious offense in France and carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years.
As the investigation continues, further updates on the case will be provided by the authorities involved.