39 bodies found inside truck container near London; probe on
On Wednesday, British Police launched a murder probe after discovering 39 dead bodies inside a truck container near London. The lorry container was found at the Waterglade Industrial Park, Eastern Avenue, Grays at 1:40 am (00:40 GMT) by an ambulance, Essex Police said in a statement. All 39 persons, including one teenager, were pronounced dead at the scene. Here are more details.
Truck container believed to have come from Bulgaria
The police believe that the truck container came from Bulgaria and entered Britain on October 19 from Holyhead on the northwest tip of Wales. Holyhead is one of the main ports for ferries from Ireland. In a statement, Chief Superintendent Andrew Mariner said, "We are in the process of identifying the victims, however, I anticipate that this could be a lengthy process."
Driver arrested; Waterglade Industrial Park cordoned
Notably, the police have arrested the 25-year-old lorry driver, who is from Northern Ireland, in connection with the incident. The Waterglade Industrial Park has also been cordoned off. Describing the incident as "tragic," Mariner said that their inquiries will establish further details of the case. He said, "We are working with Thurrock Council to mitigate against any impact our investigation scene will have locally."
Home Office will work closely with Essex Police: Boris Johnson
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was "appalled," adding, "I'm receiving regular updates and the Home Office will work closely with Essex Police as we establish exactly what has happened. My thoughts are with all those who lost their lives & their loved ones." Expressing shock and sadness, Britain's Interior Minister Priti Patel said we must give Essex Police the space to investigate.
