French authorities release detained Indian passengers after human trafficking probe
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A Nicaragua-bound flight carrying 303 passengers, predominantly Indians, has been allowed to proceed with its journey after being detained by French authorities at an airport near Paris for three days over suspected human trafficking.
The A340 aircraft, operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, received authorization to resume its journey on Monday after French judges decided to cancel the hearings for the passengers. The decision was made due to irregularities in the procedure, as reported by BFM TV, a French news broadcast television and radio network.
The passengers, who were questioned by four French judges earlier in the day at Vatry airport, have been detained since Thursday amid suspicions of human trafficking. The investigation was initiated by the Paris prosecutor's office.
Despite the release, the destination of the flight remains uncertain. It could head to India, the home country of the passengers, continue to Nicaragua, its original destination, or divert to Dubai, where it initially took off. The ambiguity adds to the intrigue surrounding the circumstances of the journey.
Among the passengers, some communicated in Hindi while others spoke Tamil, and reports suggest that they have contacted their families by telephone. Notably, ten passengers have sought asylum, according to a source close to the case.
The aircraft, owned by Romanian charter company Legend Airlines, has denied any involvement in trafficking, with a lawyer for the firm, Liliana Bakayoko, stating that a "partner" company responsible for verifying identity documents handled the passenger screening process.
The situation took a complex turn with the inclusion of 11 unaccompanied minors on the flight. Two passengers, in custody since Friday, had their detention extended for up to 48 hours, according to French prosecutors.
The Indian embassy in France has been actively involved in ensuring the welfare of its nationals, with embassy staff stationed at the airport. India's diplomatic representation expressed gratitude to French authorities for their efforts over the Christmas holiday weekend to bring about an "early resolution" to the situation.
Speculations arise that the travel may have been orchestrated by the Indian passengers to reach Central America, from where they could attempt illegal entry into the United States or Canada. The suspicions were triggered by an anonymous tip, indicating that the passengers were "likely to be victims of human trafficking" within an organized gang, alerting the authorities to intervene.
The investigation continues as the passengers embark on the next leg of their journey, leaving lingering questions about the true nature of their intended destination.