A British national, Mohammad Akhtar, 50, from Peterborough, was shot dead in Pakistan-administered Kashmir on June 9, according to his family. They stated that Pakistani security forces opened fire on a gathering where protesters were demanding economic and electoral reforms. Akhtar, who was staying in Kotli, was reportedly hit by a stray bullet.
Another British national, Waqas Arif, 38, from Nottingham, has been detained in a regional prison in Mirpur since June 5. His family maintains he was not involved in protests, but his brothers were. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has stated it is deeply concerned by the situation in parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
The FCDO confirmed that consular staff have contacted prison officials regarding Arif, who is reported to be in good health, but have not had direct contact with him. UK travel advice was updated on August 7, advising against all but essential travel to affected areas. Former Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer and current minister Stephen Doughty have been in contact with their counterparts regarding the situation.