New Delhi:

India mentioned it has been granted consular entry to these onboard a Nicaragua-bound that was grounded in France over suspected “human trafficking”. The flight had originated from the United Arab Emirates and was due for refuelling in France.

A staff from the embassy has reached the passengers, the Indian Embassy in France mentioned in a put up on X.

“French authorities knowledgeable us of a airplane with 303 folks, largely of Indian origin, from Dubai to Nicaragua detained on a technical halt at a French airport. Embassy staff has reached and obtained consular entry. We’re investigating the scenario, additionally guaranteeing the wel-lbeing of the passengers,” the put up mentioned.

French authorities knowledgeable us of a airplane w/ 303 folks, largely Indian origin, from Dubai to Nicaragua detained on a technical halt at a French airport. Embassy staff has reached & obtained consular entry. We’re investigating the scenario, additionally guaranteeing wellbeing of passengers.

— India in France (@IndiaembFrance) December 22, 2023

A Nicaragua-bound flight with over 300 Indian passengers was grounded in France over suspected “human trafficking”, authorities mentioned, reported information company AFP.

The plane was carrying passengers who’re “more likely to be victims of human trafficking”, the Paris public prosecutor’s workplace advised new company AFP, including that they have been detained on Thursday after an nameless tipoff.

France’s anti-organised crime unit JUNALCO is investigating the case, officers mentioned.

The A340, operated by Legend Airways, “remained grounded on the tarmac at Vatry airport following its touchdown”, the AFP report mentioned, quoting the prefecture within the northeastern division of Marne.

The airplane was due for a refuel and was carrying 303 Indian nationals, it mentioned.