Nicaragua-Bound Plane Grounded in France Over Suspected Human Trafficking

A plane en route to Nicaragua from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) carrying 303 Indian passengers has been grounded in France over suspected human trafficking, as reported by French authorities. The A340, operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, landed at Vatry airport, located 150 kilometers east of Paris, where it was scheduled to refuel.

The national anti-organized crime unit JUNALCO has taken over the investigation, with special investigators questioning all passengers. Two individuals are currently in custody pending further examination, according to a statement from the Paris prosecutor’s office. The prefecture in the northeastern department of Marne reported that the plane remained grounded on the tarmac following its landing on Thursday.

The passengers, believed to be Indian nationals who had likely been working in the UAE, were initially kept on the aircraft but were later allowed off and provided with individual beds in the terminal building. The airport was cordoned off by police, and the investigation was triggered by an anonymous tip indicating potential human trafficking.

Passengers were eventually transferred to the main hall of the Vatry airport, where cots were set up for an overnight stay on Thursday. French authorities, including investigators from specialized organized crime units, border police, and aviation gendarmes, are actively working on the case.

Legend Airlines, the operator of the flight, is yet to comment on the incident. Meanwhile, the Indian embassy in Paris has been informed by French authorities about the situation. According to a post on ‘X,’ the embassy stated, “French authorities informed us of a plane w/ 303 people, mostly Indian origin, from Dubai to Nicaragua detained on a technical halt at a French airport.” The embassy’s team is investigating the situation and ensuring the well-being of the passengers, as per their statement. Further details, including the timing of the plane’s detention, are not immediately available.