An Airbus A340, operated by Romania’s Legend Airlines, carrying 276 passengers, mostly Indians, landed in Mumbai on 26 Dec 2023, after a four-day detention in France.
- The detention in France was due to suspected human trafficking allegations, and the French authorities launched a probe into the purpose of the trip.
- The charter plane was detained upon landing in Vatry on 22 Dec 2023.
- French authorities confirmed 276 passengers boarded the plane, while 25 individuals, including two minors, sought asylum in France.
- The flight’s connection to Nicaragua raised concerns, given the surge in Indians attempting to enter the US illegally, with a significant increase recorded in the fiscal year 2023.
- The grounding of the flight was prompted by a tip-off suggesting the passengers were likely victims of human trafficking.
- The plane, a charter service from Dubai, was grounded at the airport near Paris, and the investigation is now under the jurisdiction of France’s anti-organised crime unit, JUNALCO.
- If proven, human trafficking carries severe consequences in France, with a potential sentence of up to 20 years.
Q: Why was the Airbus A340, a charter plane carrying mostly Indians detained in France?
- A. Mechanical issues
- B. Suspected human trafficking allegations
- C. Passport verification
- D. Weather-related concerns
Ans : B. Suspected human trafficking allegations
Q: What was the destination of the chartered flight detained in France for suspected human trafficking allegations?
A. Mumbai
B. Dubai
C. Nicaragua
D. Paris
C. Nicaragua
