Flight detained in France over trafficking suspicions arrives in Mumbai
New Delhi, December 26: An Airbus A340 carrying 276 passengers, predominantly Indians, landed in Mumbai after a four-day detention in France over suspected human trafficking. Departing from Vatry airport near Paris at 2:30 pm local time, the aircraft arrived in Mumbai around 4 am.
French authorities confirmed 276 passengers boarded the flight, while 20 individuals, including five minors, stayed in France seeking asylum. When the plane landed in Vatry on Friday, it was discovered that among 303 passengers, 11 were unaccompanied minors. During the four-day delay, the stranded passengers were accommodated with beds, restroom access, showers, and meals at Vatry airport.
The flight's connection to Nicaragua drew attention due to the nation's rising asylum seekers to the United States. US Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) data indicated a surge in Indians attempting illegal entry, reaching 96,917 in fiscal year 2023, marking a 51.61 percent increase from the prior year.
Concerns arose about 'dunki' flights, where migrants transit through countries with relaxed travel document rules to reach their final destinations, posing particular challenges in the migration process.
The charter flight, originating from Dubai, stopped for refueling at an airport near Paris but was grounded following suspicions of human trafficking. French authorities are investigating possible links to a crime syndicate and the case now involves the anti-organized crime unit, JUNALCO. If proven, human trafficking in France could lead to severe penalties of up to 20 years' imprisonment.
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