Three British nationals are currently being detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan, according to a humanitarian organisation. Scott Richards from the Presidium Network identified one of the men as Kevin Cornwell, 53, from Middlesbrough. He stated that Cornwell and another unnamed man were arrested on 11 January, with a third British man taken into custody on a separate date.
The Foreign Office has confirmed that it is doing its utmost to contact the men. A spokesperson for the department said, “We are aware of reports of the detention of three British nationals in Afghanistan and are urgently looking into them. We are in contact with the relevant local authorities and stand ready to provide consular assistance.”
The Taliban has yet to comment on the situation. However, a spokesperson for the Afghan government said, “We are aware of the reports and are doing our best to ascertain the facts. We are in contact with the relevant authorities and will provide any assistance we can.”
The news has caused concern among family members and friends of the men. One friend of Cornwell’s, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “I’m very worried about Kevin. We’ve been friends for years and I just want him to be safe and come home soon.”
The Presidium Network has called for the immediate release of the three men, saying that they are innocent and have done nothing wrong. The organisation has also urged the British government to do all it can to secure their freedom.
The situation is a reminder of the precarious security situation in Afghanistan. The country has been in a state of conflict for decades and continues to be plagued by violence and instability. The Taliban still controls large parts of the country and continues to pose a threat to civilians.
The detention of the three British nationals is a worrying development and highlights the dangers that can be faced by those travelling to Afghanistan. The British government must do all it can to ensure their safe return home.