After days of uncertainty and investigations into suspected human trafficking, an Airbus A340 carrying 276 Indian passengers landed safely in Mumbai. The flight, initially bound for Nicaragua, faced a four-day detention in France over concerns raised by an anonymous tip-off. The plane, operated by Romania-based Legend Airlines, departed from Dubai and landed in France, where authorities received a tip suggesting potential human trafficking among its passengers.
Out of the original 303 passengers, 25 sought asylum in France, including five minors, while two individuals were briefly detained and later released. Investigations found no concrete evidence of trafficking but focused on possible immigration law violations. After questioning the passengers for two days, French authorities authorized the plane’s departure, despite a French court ruling against further detention for some passengers.
The Indian Embassy appreciated French officials for swiftly resolving the situation. The passengers were likely workers from the United Arab Emirates intending to use Nicaragua as a gateway to the United States or Canada. The small fleet of Legend Airlines, operating just four planes, was involved in this incident.
The detention of the plane led to extraordinary measures at Vatry airport, where passengers were confined while authorities transformed the terminal into a makeshift courtroom for emergency hearings. Beds, toilets, and showers were installed for the passengers during the investigation. While no evidence of trafficking emerged, French authorities continue to examine potential breaches of immigration laws.
The incident raised concerns about the possible oversight of genuine trafficking victims. The flight’s landing in Mumbai marked the end of this episode, highlighting a tense period where suspicions of human trafficking gave way to immigration law scrutiny. French authorities maintain ongoing investigations into the matter.