Detained elderly British couple released from Taliban custody following a seven-month imprisonment
British Couple Peter and Barbara Reynolds Released from Taliban Detention
After seven long months in Taliban captivity, Barbie Reynolds, aged 76, and her husband Peter, aged 80, have been released from detention in Afghanistan. The Qatari government, through mediation, played a vital role in securing their release.
The couple, who run an organization called Rebuild, facilitating education and training programs for civilians, were first arrested as they traveled back to their home in Bamyan province. They chose to stay in Afghanistan when the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, stating they could not leave when Afghans were in their hour of need.
The British government offered to evacuate Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds when the Taliban took over, but they declined. Their son, Jonathan, stated in April that his parents had "never heard one accusation or one charge" during their detention. The Taliban has confirmed their release but has not provided further details.
The exact circumstances surrounding their release have not been disclosed. No information has been provided about any potential negotiations or agreements that led to their release. Qatar, led by The Amir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani, played a crucial role in securing their release.
Prior to their release, the couple were held in a maximum security prison in Kabul, Afghanistan. Following their release, they will fly to Qatar for medical checks before traveling to the UK. The couple's current health status is unknown following their seven-month detention.
The couple were married in Kabul in 1970 and have a long-term home in Afghanistan's Bamiyan province. Their release follows months of public lobbying by their family for their release. The British government also acknowledged and appreciated Qatar's crucial role in their release.
Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds are now on their way home, where they will be reunited with their family. The couple's organization, Rebuild, continues its work in Afghanistan, providing education and training programs to civilians in need.
