Plane held in France over 'human trafficking' concerns lands in Mumbai

A chartered plane, Airbus A340, which was held in France for four days on suspicion of 'human trafficking' touched down in Mumbai shortly after 4 am with 276 passengers on board, according to the official statement.

When the flight landed at Vatry airport, there were over 300 passengers on board, including 11 minors. The plane took off from France for Mumbai with 276 passengers on board as 25 persons, including two minors, had expressed the wish to apply for asylum in France. Two others were held, produced before a judge and placed on assisted witness status.

(Image credits: AP)

Having arrived from Dubai, the detention of the charter aircraft was prompted by an anonymous tip suggesting the possible transportation of human trafficking victims on board which included over 300 Indians.

(Image credits: PTI)

The aircraft was heading towards Nicaragua when it faced detention last Thursday at Vatry airport, situated to the east of Paris where the plane had stopped for refueling.

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Stranded passengers of the detained plane were provided makeshift beds, with access to toilets, showers, meals and hot drinks in the hall of Vatry airport, according to official sources.

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French authorities i​nitiated a judicial inquiry to delve into the circumstances and motives behind the journey. A specialized unit focusing on organized crime actively investigated the potential occurrence of human trafficking.

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The permission for the aircraft to depart was granted following a French court's decision that prolonging the detention of three passengers would be unlawful. Two individuals had been questioned on suspicion but were later released by the French police after confirming that all 303 passengers had willingly boarded the plane.

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Nicaragua has recently gained popularity as a destination for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. Flights to Nicaragua or third countries where obtaining travel documents is easy have come to be known as 'dunki' flights which are often used to enter the desired destination.

(Image credits: PTI)