Hard to make out the picture.
There certainly isn't much space below the seat, where the battery and heater control valve reside. So why does the article say that this is where the refugees were stowed away?
Other than a place for a twisted right foot, which may not be necessary, it doesn't seem reasonable to me.
Is that a gas tank, or small satchel strapped alongside the inner vertical firewall?
Hope they brought a good axle case pillow- looks like any bump traversed by the rear wheels would be a real headache for the refugee.
Obviously a case for a good chiropractor after reaching the American side.
Would they have to worry about being accepted back in after they deciding that having to obey traffic laws and not carry concealed firearms was too dear a price to pay for their new found freedom?