1. St. Lawrence River migrant deaths
2. RCMP investigation into dead migrants in St. Lawrence River.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Members of two families — four people from India and four of Romanian descent — tragically lost their lives in March 2023 while attempting to cross the border in Akwesasne. The incident involved a human smuggling ring that was recently dismantled by the RCMP, shedding light on the dangerous and illegal activities that continue to plague the region.
The victims, who drowned in the St. Lawrence River, were identified as the Chaudhari family from India and the Iordache family of Romanian descent. The bodies of the deceased were recovered from the water on March 30 and 31, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
On June 6, police announced the arrest of several individuals connected to the smuggling ring, including the alleged ringleader, Thesingarasan Rasiah. The RCMP revealed that the network operated on a large scale, funneling illegal migrants into the United States. Charges were laid against those involved, signaling the end of the group’s operations.
According to Cpl. Angelique Dignard of the RCMP’s detachment in Cornwall, two of the accused have charges related to the transport of the Indian family. However, the fate of the Romanian family, who were allegedly on the same boat, remains unclear.
The victims from the Chaudhari family included Praveenbhai Chaudhari (50), Dakshaben Chaudhari (45), Meet Chaudhari (20), and Vidhi Chaudhari (23). The Iordache family consisted of Florin Iordache (28), Cristina (Monalisa) Zenaida Iordache (28), Evelin Iordache (2), and Elyen Iordache (1).
The arrests made by the RCMP are seen as a deterrent to future smuggling activities, but authorities acknowledge that the problem may persist. The extensive investigation uncovered financial transactions amounting to $1.4 million linked to Rasiah, highlighting the lucrative nature of human smuggling operations.
While some suspects remain at large, including Justin Rourke, Shawna Etienne, Cheyenne Lewis, and Tionna David, efforts are ongoing to bring them to justice. The involvement of individuals from various countries, including India, Romania, and Sri Lanka, underscores the global reach of the smuggling network.
Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance in combating this illicit trade. Despite the arrests and charges laid, the RCMP remains committed to investigating and prosecuting those involved in human smuggling.
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1. Human smuggling group dead migrants St. Lawrence River RCMP
2. Human smuggling group tied dead migrants St. Lawrence River RCMP.
