A British couple in their 70s, Peter Reynolds, 79, and his wife Barbie, 75, have been arrested by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The humanitarian workers were detained on February 1 while returning to their home in Bamiyan. Their sudden disappearance has left their family deeply concerned, as they have not heard from them in over two weeks.

Who Are Peter and Barbie Reynolds?

Peter and Barbie Reynolds have dedicated the last 18 years to running educational and training programs in Afghanistan. Their projects focused on providing essential skills to local communities, including training mothers and children. Despite the Taliban’s strict restrictions on women’s education and employment, the couple reportedly had local approval to continue their work.

The couple first met at the University of Bath and later married in Kabul in 1970. Since 2009, they have been leading initiatives across five schools in Kabul, as well as a specialized program in Bamiyan.

Mysterious Arrest and Silence from Authorities

After the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021, most foreign aid workers left the country. However, the Reynolds chose to stay, believing they could still help Afghan communities in their time of need.

Following their arrest, the couple initially managed to send text messages to their four children, reassuring them they were being held by the Taliban’s Interior Ministry and were “fine.” However, all communication ceased three days later, leaving their family in distress.

Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, expressed her deep concern, stating, “It’s been over two weeks since the messages stopped, and they were taken into custody. We would like the Taliban to release them so they can return home and continue their work.”

Health Concerns and Calls for Their Release

One of the most pressing concerns is Peter Reynolds’ health. Having suffered a mini-stroke, he requires heart medication, which reports suggest he has been denied access to. An employee familiar with their situation described the couple as “the most honorable people I have ever met” and emphasized that Peter’s condition is worsening.

The Reynolds were detained along with their American colleague, Faye Hall, and a translator from their organization. The circumstances surrounding their arrest remain unclear, but their supporters insist that they have always followed local regulations.

Sarah Entwistle emphasized the injustice of their detention, stating, “They were just trying to help the country they loved. The idea that they are being held because they were teaching mothers with children is outrageous.”

Global Concern and Diplomatic Efforts

As international concern grows over the couple’s detention, pressure is mounting on diplomatic channels to secure their release. Humanitarian organizations and global leaders are calling on the Taliban to provide clarity on their arrest and ensure their safety.

The case highlights the challenges faced by aid workers in Afghanistan and raises serious questions about the risks for those trying to provide humanitarian assistance under the Taliban regime.