Grounded Airbus A340 Lands in Mumbai Amidst Human Trafficking Suspicions

After five tense days grounded at Vatry Airport in Marne, France, an Airbus A340 operated by the Romanian airline Legend Airlines, landed in Mumbai, India with 276 Indian passengers on board. The plane had initially been scheduled for a technical stopover on its route from Dubai to Managua, Nicaragua. However, following an anonymous tip-off suggesting possible human trafficking, French authorities seized the aircraft. Out of the 303 Indian passengers originally on board, 276 continued their journey to India, while two individuals suspected of being smugglers were released under supervised status after a French judge's interrogation.

Grounded on suspicion of human trafficking

The aircraft's unexpected grounding came after an anonymous tip-off raised concerns about possible clandestine immigration. The tip suggested that the passengers on board, most of whom were Indian citizens working in the UAE, might be victims of human trafficking. This led to an administrative and judicial delay, with French authorities thoroughly investigating the allegations. However, the charge of organized human trafficking was not sustained at this stage.

Release and Return to India

After the extensive investigation, the plane was eventually allowed to leave France on Monday and arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday. Indian authorities have not yet communicated about the plane's arrival or the passengers' exit from the airport. The passengers, reportedly, refused to answer questions from the media upon their arrival in Mumbai.

Remaining Passengers and Ongoing Investigation

While most passengers continued their journey to India, 25 individuals, including five minors, decided to remain in France after claiming asylum. Their cases are set to be reviewed at Charles de Gaulle Airport. An investigation for aiding and abetting the irregular entry and stay of foreigners in an organized group, and participation in a criminal association, has been opened in France. The case continues to unfold, shedding light on the complexity of immigration and human rights issues.