Published 21:27 IST, October 24th 2019
China embassy staff visit Essex to identify bodies found in the truck
The foreign ministry claimed that the Chinese embassy staff is heading to Essex to verify reports that the 39 people found dead in a truck were its nationals
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The Foreign Ministry on October 24 reportedly announced that staff from the Chinese embassy were heading to Essex in Britain to verify reports of whether the 39 people who were found dead in a truck were its nationals. The unverified Twitter account attributed to China's UK ambassador, Liu Xiaoming claimed that the Chinese government is in close contact with the UK police who discovered the 39 bodies from a lorry container on Wednesday, October 23.
Embassy Spokesperson Statement: We read with heavy heart the reports about the death of 39 people in Essex, England. We are in close contact with the British police to seek clarification and confirmation of the relevant reports.
— Liu Xiaoming (@AmbLiuXiaoMing) October 24, 2019
The lorry was found parked in Waterglade Industrial Park in southeast England. Police have launched a multiple-murder investigation and have arrested the 25-year-old lorry driver. All the 39 people, including a teenager, were declared dead at the scene, reported British media. The police, who are now working on the identification of the bodies, stated that it will be a “lengthy process given the scale of the crime". According to media reports, the lorry was registered in Bulgaria and it had entered the county through Holyhead, Wales on October 19. Police have thrown a security cordon at the Waterglade Industrial Park. Chief Superintendent Andrew Mariner said the security will affect local businesses in the area but that they will try to ensure the disruption is kept short.
Johnson appalled by the incident
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is reportedly closely following the developments from the incident where the 39 bodies were discovered. Johnson said he is receiving regular updates and the Home Office will work closely on the murder investigation. Home Secretary Priti Patel reacted to the incident, saying she was "shocked and saddened" and called it an "utterly tragic incident". She also urged to give space to Essex police to conduct their investigation.
I’m appalled by this tragic incident in Essex. 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 & their loved ones.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) October 23, 2019
20:26 IST, October 24th 2019