KABUL, Afghanistan – A couple who lived in Afghanistan for 18 years, running education projects and holding citizenship, have been detained for five months under what the United Nations describes as “inhumane” and “degrading” conditions.
A Harrowing Wait for Release
The family has endured a “harrowing and surreal” wait for their release. Their son, Mr. Reynolds, shared distressing details about their situation, highlighting the worsening health of his parents.
The detained couple’s health is a grave concern, with the UN warning of potential death if medical care is not provided.
- A couple, detained for five months in Afghanistan, faces “inhumane” conditions.
- The UN has warned of their deteriorating health and need for immediate medical care.
- The 80-year-old father suffers from tremors and a history of heart issues.
- The mother exhibits symptoms of anemia and malnutrition.
- They were deemed innocent by a judge but face no charges.
Dire Health Concerns Emerge
The couple last contacted their children on June 15, revealing the severity of their health decline. The 80-year-old father, who has a history of minor heart attacks, is reportedly showing signs of early Parkinson’s disease.
He experienced a frightening episode, convulsing on the prison floor for half an hour, before being moved to a mattress. His wife is suffering from blue hands and feet, attributed to anemia and malnutrition.
What are the conditions like for the detained couple?
They are held in harsh conditions, including a maximum-security prison, without charges. One account mentions the father being chained to murderers and criminals, and a six-week period in a basement without sunlight.
Life in Detention
Despite being “deemed innocent” by a judge and facing no charges, the parents have been held in appalling conditions. Their son described his father being chained to criminals and spending six weeks in a basement without any sunlight or opportunity to leave.
One of their education projects, which focused on training women and children, had reportedly been approved by local authorities. This work continued despite the Taliban’s ban on education for girls over 12 and restrictions on women working.
The family remains uncertain about the couple’s exact location and whether a formal demand for their immediate release has been made. They have been repeatedly told to “just hang tight,” with weeks passing without their freedom.
The couple celebrated both their birthdays and their 55th wedding anniversary while in prison. They were married in Kabul in 1970.
While grateful for the communication from the Foreign Office, their son expressed a poignant sentiment: “I’m thankful they were together, but they’re certainly not free.”
