British national killed in Kashmir clashes as detention of second Briton continues
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has updated travel advice against all but essential travel to the region, as diplomatic efforts struggle to secure the release of detained citizens amidst a severe political crisis.
Mohammad Akhtar, a 50-year-old British national from Peterborough, was shot dead by Pakistani security forces in Pakistan-administered Kashmir on 9 June. Akhtar died from a stray bullet while staying in Kotli during violent clashes between authorities and protesters demanding economic and electoral reforms. His family maintains he was not participating in the demonstrations, which were occurring near his residence.
The incident occurred amidst a severe crackdown on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a civil society group that launched protests months ahead of the regional vote. Pakistan has declared the JAAC a terrorist organisation and imposed a communications blackout in the territory since 5 June. Security forces have been accused of fatally shooting at least 30 people during the unrest, allegations the government has rejected.
Akhtar’s children have decided not to pursue legal action with British authorities. According to his cousin, Mohammad Saad, the family feared retaliation and were unable to register a police complaint in Kashmir. Saad stated that highlighting the case could target the family, noting that Akhtar had a bullet wound to the side of his chest.
Concurrently, Waqas Arif, a 38-year-old British national from Nottingham, remains detained in Mirpur prison without charge since 5 June. His family claims he was arrested alongside his brothers, who participated in the protests, despite Arif not being involved. His sister, Sumera, argued that authorities are detaining individuals to minimise protest power, while his wife, Varisha Kampulvi, has highlighted the case to British officials.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) stated it is deeply concerned by the situation. FCDO ministers and the UK high commissioner are in contact with their counterparts, and travel advice was updated on 7 August to advise against all but essential travel to affected areas. UK MP Hamish Falconer raised the issue during a visit to Islamabad in June, and Foreign Office minister Stephen Doughty has also engaged with counterparts. Pakistan’s foreign ministry and high commission in London did not respond to requests for comment.
