British police found the bodies of 39 people inside a truck container believed to have come from Bulgaria at an industrial estate to the east of London on Wednesday.
The driver of the truck, reported to be a 25-year-old Northern Irishman, has been arrested on suspicion of murder.
The truck is believed to have come from Bulgaria and entered the UK over the weekend.
“We believe the lorry is from Bulgaria and entered the country at Holyhead on Saturday 19 October and we are working closely with our partners to investigate,” Chief Superintendent Andrew Mariner from the Essex Police said in a statement.
Mariner said the police are in the process of identifying the victims but cautioned that it could be a lengthy process.
The victims, 38 adults and one teenager, were all pronounced dead at the scene after they were found at the Waterglade Industrial Park, not far from docks on the River Thames.
Bulgaria’s foreign ministry said it could not confirm at this stage whether the truck had started its journey from the country.
“We are still checking the information, published in the British media and we’re contacting the authorities,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Tsvetana Krasteva said.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is keeping an eye on the situation.
“I’m appalled by this tragic incident in Essex,” Johnson said.
“I am receiving regular updates from the Home Office and will work closely with Essex Police as we establish exactly what has happened,” he said. “My thoughts are with all those who lost their lives & their loved ones.”
