India-bound plane grounded in France over human trafficking concerns lands in Mumbai

After days of uncertainty and a probe into suspected human trafficking, an Airbus A340 carrying 276 Indian passengers touched down safely in Mumbai following a series of investigations and legal deliberations in France.

The Airbus flight, initially bound for Nicaragua, faced a four-day detention in France over suspicions of human trafficking. The flight, operated by Romania-based Legend Airlines, was halted in Vatry airport, east of Paris, following concerns raised by an anonymous tip-off.

The plane 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, including five minors, sought asylum in France while two individuals were briefly detained but later released. 

Investigations found no concrete evidence of trafficking but focused on possible immigration law violations.

French authorities, after questioning the passengers for two days, authorised the plane's departure. Despite a French court ruling against further detention for some passengers, the situation sparked debate. 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, which operates 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 among some organizations 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.