Elderly Humanitarians Detained in Bamiyan
A British couple in their late 70s, known for their humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan, has been arrested by the Taliban. Peter Reynolds (79) and his wife Barbie (75) were taken into custody on February 1, 2024, while traveling back to their home in Bamiyan province.
For nearly two decades, the couple has been working on educational and training initiatives, particularly for mothers and children. Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, revealed that she has had no contact with them for over two weeks, raising serious concerns about their whereabouts and well-being.
Lifelong Commitment to Afghanistan
Peter and Barbie first met at the University of Bath and later married in Kabul in 1970. Their passion for education led them to establish training programs in multiple schools across Kabul and Bamiyan since 2009.
Despite the Taliban taking control in 2021, which prompted many foreign nationals to leave, the couple chose to stay behind, believing in their mission to help Afghan communities. Their projects were reportedly approved by local authorities, despite the Taliban’s strict ban on women’s employment and education beyond the age of 12.
Communication Cut Off After Three Days
Following their arrest, Peter and Barbie were initially able to communicate with their family via text messages, confirming they were being held by the Taliban’s Interior Ministry and assuring they were “fine.” However, after three days, all contact suddenly ceased, leaving their children in distress.
Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, based in Northamptonshire, UK, has appealed to the Taliban for their safe release, emphasizing her father’s urgent need for heart medication, as he had suffered a mini-stroke in the past.
Arrested Alongside an American Colleague and Translator
Reports indicate that Faye Hall, an American humanitarian worker, and a local translator were also detained along with the couple. A former employee described Peter and Barbie as “the most selfless and honorable individuals” and confirmed that Peter has been denied access to his heart medication, raising concerns about his health condition deteriorating in custody.
Taliban’s Explanation for the Arrest
Taliban sources claim that the couple was detained for allegedly using a plane without prior notification to Bamiyan security forces. The Taliban has intensified restrictions on NGOs, banning women from working in them since 2022, and warning that any organization employing women would be shut down.
UK Government’s Response and Diplomatic Challenges
The UK Foreign Office has acknowledged the detention of two British nationals in Afghanistan. However, their ability to intervene is limited, as the UK does not recognize the Taliban regime and has no diplomatic presence in Kabul.
Meanwhile, the Reynolds’ children have written a direct appeal to the Taliban, urging them to release their elderly parents. They highlighted that their parents were committed to Afghanistan’s development and had no intention of becoming part of a political exchange or negotiation.
As concerns grow over their safety, international attention is turning toward the Taliban’s treatment of foreign aid workers and humanitarian volunteers in Afghanistan.
