New Delhi: In a startling turn of events, a Nicaragua-bound plane, with 303 Indian passengers on board, faced an unexpected halt at Vatry airport in France. The reason behind this dramatic grounding was the suspicion of human trafficking, leading to an investigation by Frances anti-organised crime unit, JUNALCO.The Aircraft and the investigationLegend Airlines, a Romanian company, found its A340 grounded at Vatry airport, approximately 150 kilometres east of Paris. The suspicion arose from an anonymous tip, signaling potential human trafficking victims on the flight that originated from Dubai. The Airbus A340 landed at Vatry airport for routine refuelling, and this is where the situation unfolded.Taking charge of the investigation, JUNALCO detained two men from the flight for questioning. Simultaneously, the airports reception area transformed into a waiting space, housing all passengers under heightened security measures.Unaccompanied minors raise concernsThe Prefecture office in Marne, northeastern France, revealed a concerning detail — among the passengers were 13 unaccompanied minors and accompanied minors, aged between 21 months and 17 years. The nature of the situation intensified as authorities delved into understanding the circumstances of these young passengers.A Titter user posted on X that thr 303 Gujarati immigrants made payments of amounting to Rs 30-40 lacs per head to an agent to traffic them to US via UAE and Nicargua.2 pax have been arrested. Remaining 301 passengers accommodated in a makeshift prisoner center in the small departure area at Vatry Airport while they await processing.303 illegal Gujarati immigrants had paid an agent 30-40 lakhs each to take them to US via UAE & Nicaragua. pic.twitter.com/vkWQEJgpoz— Kaleshi Bua (@KaleshiBua) December 23, 2023Legal perspectives Liliana Bakayoko, the lawyer representing Legend Airlines, stated that all crew members underwent interrogation and were subsequently released. Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in France swiftly stepped in, ensuring consular access to the Indian passengers. The embassy initiated its investigation into the matter, prioritizing the well-being of the passengers involved.Ongoing developmentsWhile the grounded plane remained on the tarmac of Vatry airport, all passengers endured a waiting game in the designated area, closely monitored under tightened security protocols. The situation is dynamic, with continuous updates expected as the investigation progresses.What lies aheadThe unfolding incident raises pressing questions about potential human trafficking activities. As the investigation proceeds, it casts a spotlight on the need for international collaboration to address such critical issues. The role of JUNALCO, the legal ramifications for Legend Airlines, and the well-being of the passengers are integral aspects that will shape the narrative as more details emerge.
