UK truck deaths
More unfolds in the horror UK truck discovery
LAUNCHING ONE OF THE largest murder investigations in British history, the horrific discovery of 39 bodies in the back of a truck has captured worldwide attention. Charged with 39 counts of manslaughter, the vehicle’s Irish-born driver, Maurice ‘Mo’ Robinson, 25, has been in police custody since October 23.
Events unfolded in the early hours of the morning, when an unknown call to paramedics was made from an industrial park in Essex. There, emergency services made the grisly discovery of the deceased bodies in the back of a refrigerated lorry.
Having been driven from Belgium to Britain, the truck had travelled 12 hours on a ferry without its contents being discovered. With no cause of death officially released, the coroner is currently working on identifying the eight women and 31 men.
Robinson was arrested under suspicion of murder, and has since been charged with 39 counts of manslaughter, conspiracy to traffic humans, conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and money laundering. Four others have also been arrested in relation to the crimes but have not been formally charged.
The victims are believed to be Chinese and Vietnamese nationals. A text message from Pham Thi Tra My, 26, was released by Hoa Nghiem from Human Rights Space in Vietnam. “I’m sorry, Mum and Dad. My path abroad was not a success, I love you both so much. I can’t breathe,” My’s text read. She is believed to be among the victims.
The tragedy has rocked the Vietnamese community with those who have missing loved ones holding vigils, praying that their family members are not identified as part of this incident. As investigations continue, British authorities work to uncover more details about this tragic ending to 39 lives.