39 bodies recovered from truck container in London's industrial park, driver nabbed

British police stated that 39 bodies were recovered near London in a truck container believed to have arrived from Bulgaria. Essex police claimed that the people were all declared dead at the spot in an industrial park in London’s Greys. Early reports suggest the victims are 38 adults and one teenager.

A 25 year old man, who hailed from Northern Ireland has been taking into custody on suspicion of murder.

“This is a tragic incident where a large number of people have lost their lives," Essex Police chief superintendent Andrew Mariner said in a statement.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was greatly distressed and sent his console to the family of the deceased.

"I'm appalled by this tragic incident in Essex," he said.

"I am 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 and their loved ones."

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The police stated that they were apprised by the ambulance service shortly before 1:40 am after the finding of a truck container with bodies inside at the Waterglade Industrial Park.

"We are in the process of identifying the victims. However I anticipate that this could be a lengthy process," said Mariner.

"We believe the lorry is from Bulgaria," said Mariner.

"We have arrested the lorry driver in connection with the incident who remains in police custody as our enquiries continue."

He stated that it was assumed the truck came into Britain on Saturday at Holyhead on the northwest tip of Wales.

The UK an the Repubic of Ireland are not in the European Union’s no-border zone but have their own Common Travel Area, which means there are no check points between the two countries.

Richard Burnett, chief executive of the Road Haulage Association which represents the truck driver in Britain, stated "Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased but whatever the circumstances, it highlights the danger of migrant gangs people-smuggling on lorries."

Jackie Doyle Price, the MP representing the local Thurrock constituency in and around Greys stated that the news was sickening.

"People trafficking is a vile and dangerous business," she said.

"Let's hope they bring these murderers to justice."

Home Secretary Priti Patel, also went on to say that the incident was "shocked and saddened by this utterly tragic incident.

"Essex Police has arrested an individual and we must give them the space to conduct their investigations."