New Delhi: In a startling turn of events, France has grounded a Nicaragua-bound plane carrying over 300 Indian passengers on suspicion of “human trafficking.” The aircraft, which originated from the United Arab Emirates, was detained following an anonymous tipoff received by the Paris public prosecutor’s office.
The Paris public prosecution office revealed that the passengers aboard the detained plane were deemed “likely to be victims of human trafficking.” The Indian embassy in France has been actively involved, seeking consular access and conducting an investigation into the situation.
“French authorities informed us of a plane w/ 303 people, mostly Indian origin, from Dubai to Nicaragua detained on a technical halt at a French airport. Embassy team has reached & obtained consular access. We are investigating the situation, also ensuring wellbeing of passengers,” the Indian embassy stated on X, formerly Twitter.
The investigation has been handed over to the national anti-organized crime unit, JUNALCO, confirming suspicions of potential human trafficking. The A340, operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, remains grounded at Vatry airport. It had intended to refuel and was transporting 303 Indian nationals.
The prefecture in the northeastern department of Marne disclosed that a specialized unit focusing on organized crime is examining the possibility of human trafficking. Two individuals have been taken into custody for interrogation in connection with this case.
This incident raises serious concerns about the safety and security of air travel, emphasizing the need for vigilant measures against human trafficking activities.
