Lorry Driver Pleads Guilty to 39 Counts of Manslaughter in Horror Truck Deaths
Maurice Robinson, 25, from Craigavon, Northern Ireland, has pleaded guilty to 39 counts of manslaughter at the Old Bailey today. The shocking charges relate to the deaths of 39 Vietnamese nationals found dead in a lorry last October.
Robinson appeared via video link this afternoon, adding to his previous guilty pleas for conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and acquiring criminal property back in November.
Other Suspects Face Court Amid Ongoing Investigation
- Christopher Kennedy, 23, from Darkley, County Armagh, was also in court virtually. He faces conspiracy charges linked to arranging travel for exploitation and breaching UK immigration laws.
- Gheorghe Nica, 43, arrested in Frankfurt under a European Arrest Warrant, pleaded not guilty to 39 manslaughter charges and conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration.
- Alexandru-Ovidiu Hanga, 27, from Tilbury, and Valentin Calota, 37, from Birmingham, both face charges related to immigration law breaches. Hanga pleaded not guilty; Calota did not enter a plea.
Trial Set for October as Appeals Continue
The trial for the accused will kick off on Monday, 5 October. Meanwhile, Eamonn Harrison, 22, from Mayobridge, Northern Ireland, has been granted leave to appeal his extradition to the UK. He faces 39 manslaughter charges plus conspiracy to traffic people and assist unlawful immigration. His next hearing is scheduled for 7 May in Dublin.
UK and International Agencies Crack Down on Tragedy
The investigation involves close cooperation between the Crown Prosecution Service, National Crime Agency, and international partners, including officials in Vietnam. Sentencing for Maurice Robinson will be confirmed at a later date.
