A passenger plane bound for Nicaragua carrying 303 Indian passengers was temporarily grounded at France’s Vatry Airport amid a human trafficking investigation. The plane, operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, faced scrutiny after an anonymous tip-off. The investigation led to the detention of two passengers and raised concerns about potential human trafficking by an organized criminal group. The unfolding situation prompted a multi-day confinement of the passengers at the airport, with legal proceedings and negotiations finally allowing the plane to depart.
Thursday Arrival and Investigation
The Nicaragua-bound Airbus A340, en route from Dubai, landed at Vatry Airport for refueling. An anonymous tip-off triggered a human trafficking investigation, leading to the grounding of the plane. The passengers, including 11 unaccompanied minors, were placed in the airport terminal during the investigation.
Passengers’ Situation and Asylum Requests
Beds, toilets, and showers were installed for the stranded passengers. Twelve passengers requested asylum in France, while 11 were identified as unaccompanied minors. Legal proceedings and emergency hearings were conducted to determine the passengers’ status.
Indian Embassy Intervention
The Indian embassy in Paris engaged with French authorities to ensure the welfare of detained passengers. Consular staff from the embassy worked towards an early resolution of the situation.
Release of the Airliner
After questioning passengers for two days, French prosecutors allowed the plane to leave, lifting the seizure order. Formalities for passengers’ departure, particularly those returning to India, were underway.
Legal Challenges and Disputes
Emergency hearings were conducted at the airport terminal to assess whether passengers could be released. Disputes over the procedure used to block the passengers led to a halt in the hearings. Legal challenges and disputes over the next steps were expected to be resolved overnight.
Departure Approval and Future Plans
Full approval for the departure of the plane, carrying a significant number of passengers back to India, was expected on Monday. Legend Airlines’ lawyer, Liliana Bakayoko, estimated around 280 passengers should be able to leave.
Concerns and Denial by Legend Airlines:
Legend Airlines denied any role in potential human trafficking, stating that a partner company was responsible for verifying passengers’ identification documents. The situation raised concerns about the handling of the passengers and the overall circumstances leading to the investigation.
International Context:
The incident coincided with heightened scrutiny globally over human trafficking, with specific attention to the surge of Indians crossing the Mexico-US border.
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