The life of a 79-year-old British man named Peter Reynolds, who is imprisoned along with his wife Barbie, 75, by the Taliban in Afghanistan, is in grave danger. Both Peter and Barbie were detained last month when they returned to their home in Bamiyan province, where they run a training business. After the couple was separated and moved to a high-security prison, Peter’s health deteriorated significantly.

Reynolds’ daughter, Sarah Entwistle, said in an interview with the Sunday Times that her father suffers from a chest infection, double eye infection, and severe digestive issues due to inadequate nutrition. She also mentioned that her father needs medication for his heart, as he had a mini-stroke before his detention. Without access to these life-saving medications, Reynolds’ life is in serious jeopardy.

Entwistle also claimed that her father has been subjected to physical abuse, including beating and shackling, which has resulted in immense pain. In a direct appeal to the Taliban, she urged them to release both Reynolds and his wife to their home, where they can access the necessary medication. She argued that this gesture would not only be an act of kindness but also demonstrate compassion that would be remembered around the world.

The couple’s business, Rebuild, has been running projects in schools in Afghanistan for the past 18 years, even after the Taliban regained power in 2021. In fact, Barbie was the first woman to receive a certificate of appreciation from the Taliban.

On February 1, the couple was arrested along with an American-Chinese friend, Faye Hall, who had rented a plane to travel with them, and a translator. The reason for their detention remains unclear, but it is suspected that their teaching of mothers with children may have been a contributing factor. Following their arrest, a spokesperson for the Taliban stated that they were considering various options for their release.

The couple, originally from the University of Bath, were married in Kabul in 1970. Their family has chosen not to involve the UK government in their case. However, a spokesperson for the Foreign Office confirmed that they are providing support to the family of the two British nationals who are detained in Afghanistan.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/16/life-of-british-man-79-imprisoned-by-taliban-is-in-serious-danger-say-family