British national shot dead by Pakistani forces during Kashmir protests

In Pakistan-administered Kashmir, a British national named Mohammad Akhtar, aged 50, was killed on June 9, 2026, during violent clashes between security forces and protesters. Akhtar, who resided in Peterborough, was reportedly struck by a stray bullet while he was near his home in Kotli, where protests were taking place. His family stated that he was not participating in the demonstrations, which were demanding economic and electoral reforms in the region, a territory claimed by both Pakistan and India. The protests have been part of a larger unrest that has seen dozens killed and has posed significant challenges for Pakistani authorities.

The situation in Kashmir has escalated, with the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a civil society group, leading protests against the government. These protests have been met with a violent crackdown by Pakistani security forces, who have been accused of suppressing dissent and detaining numerous supporters of the JAAC. The unrest has intensified ahead of a three-phase vote in the region that began on July 27, 2026, further complicating the political landscape.

In addition to Akhtar's tragic death, another British national, Waqas Arif, aged 38, from Nottingham, has been detained in a regional prison since June 5, 2026, following protests in Mirpur. His family claims he was not involved in the demonstrations, yet he was taken by security forces due to his brothers' participation. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has expressed concern over the situation in Kashmir and has been in contact with Pakistani officials regarding the treatment of British nationals in the region.

The FCDO has updated its travel advice, warning against all but essential travel to affected areas in Kashmir. The ongoing unrest and the deaths of individuals like Akhtar highlight the volatile situation in the region, where calls for reform clash with government efforts to maintain control. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, as the implications of these events could have far-reaching consequences for both local residents and foreign nationals with ties to the region.