Son Warns British Couple Detained in Afghanistan Faces Dire Risks of Imprisonment
The son of a British couple detained by the Taliban for five months has expressed grave concerns about their deteriorating health and the conditions of their imprisonment. Peter Reynolds, 80, and his wife Barbie, 76, were arrested on February 1 while returning to their home in Bamiyan province, Afghanistan. Their son, Jonathan Reynolds, revealed that both parents are suffering from serious health issues, and he fears they may not survive without urgent medical care.
Health Deterioration and Harsh Conditions
Jonathan Reynolds has reported alarming details about his parents’ health since their detention. He stated that his father has been experiencing severe convulsions, while his mother is suffering from symptoms related to anaemia and malnutrition. The couple last communicated with their family on June 15, revealing the extent of their health issues. Jonathan described his father’s condition as rapidly declining, mentioning potential early signs of Parkinson’s disease, including tremors and shakes. He recounted a distressing incident where his father spent half an hour convulsing on the prison floor before being moved to a makeshift bed. Meanwhile, his mother has developed blue hands and feet due to lack of proper healthcare.
The couple has been held in a maximum-security prison despite being deemed innocent by a judge and facing no formal charges. Jonathan expressed his frustration over the lack of clarity regarding their detention, stating that every week brings false promises of their imminent release. He emphasized the harsh conditions they endure, including being confined in a basement for six weeks without sunlight.
International Concerns and Calls for Action
The United Nations has raised alarms about the couple’s situation, labeling their detention as “inhumane.” A statement from the UN’s human rights body highlighted the urgent need for medical care, warning that without it, the couple faces the risk of irreparable harm or even death. The UN has called for their immediate transfer to a civilian hospital and questioned the rationale behind their continued detention. They have also engaged with both the Taliban and the UK government regarding the couple’s case.
Taliban official Abdul Mateen Qani previously indicated that the group intends to release the couple “as soon as possible,” but no further details have been provided. The UN’s statement reflects a growing concern over the treatment of the couple, particularly given their age and fragile health.
Family’s Ongoing Struggle
Jonathan Reynolds has described the past five months as “harrowing and surreal,” as he anxiously awaits news of his parents. He expressed gratitude for the communication from the UK Foreign Office, although he remains uncertain about the progress of their case. The couple, who have lived in Afghanistan for 18 years and have citizenship there, celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in prison last week. Jonathan noted that while he is thankful they are together, the reality of their situation is far from ideal.
The UK government has faced criticism for its limited ability to assist British nationals in Afghanistan since the Taliban regained control in 2021. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has advised against all travel to the country and acknowledged that support for British citizens remains severely restricted.
Future Uncertain
As the situation unfolds, the family continues to grapple with uncertainty regarding the fate of Peter and Barbie Reynolds. Jonathan’s pleas for their release echo the concerns raised by international bodies about the couple’s health and the conditions of their detention. With no clear timeline for their release, the Reynolds family remains hopeful for a resolution while fearing for the safety and well-being of their loved ones.
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