Over 300 Indian citizens find themselves stranded at Vatry airport near Paris after their Nicaragua-bound Airbus A340 was grounded in a suspected case of human trafficking. The unfolding situation has prompted French authorities to take swift action, leading to the detention of the passengers.
The Airbus A340, operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, had departed from Dubai and made a technical halt at Vatry airport with 303 Indian nationals on board. The detention was initiated based on a tip-off received by the authorities, suggesting that the passengers were potential victims of human trafficking.The French authorities said that the plane was carrying 13 unaccompanied minors as well as accompanied minors, with their ages ranging from 21 months to 17 years.
Legal Proceedings:
As the passengers face detention at the airport, French judges are set to decide on the extension of their sequestration. The legal process involves urgent hearings to comply with time constraints. The initial detention period is 96 hours, extendable to eight days with judicial approval, and an additional eight days in exceptional circumstances, up to a maximum of 26 days.
Indian Embassy Involvement:
The Indian Embassy in France is actively engaged in high-level discussions with French authorities to resolve the situation promptly. Consular access has been provided to all 303 Indians, and the embassy ensures their well-being during this challenging time.
Request for Asylum:
11 Indian passengers have sought asylum in France, including six minors. Legal proceedings are underway to determine whether they qualify for political refugee status, with the urgency emphasized due to the 96-hour detention limit.
Airline’s Position:
Legend Airlines, the Romanian company operating the charter flight, denies any involvement in human trafficking. The 15-member crew has been questioned and released, with the airline cooperating with French authorities to address the unfolding situation.
Concerns and Complexity:
The incident sheds light on the complexities of charter operations, involving multiple entities and highlighting challenges in verifying passenger information. The intended destination, Nicaragua, adds a layer of geopolitical context, given its status as a migratory springboard and its identification by the US government for human trafficking concerns.
The Indian Embassy continues to work closely with French authorities to ensure a swift resolution.