KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – British nationals Peter Reynolds, 79, and his wife, Barbie, 75, have been moved to separate maximum-security prisons as their health rapidly deteriorates, following their detention by the Taliban last month in Bamyan.
According to The Sunday Times, the couple, along with their American friend Faye Hall, were arrested in February and transported to Kabul.
Sarah Entwistle, the couple’s daughter, described the situation as a “shocking escalation,” saying Peter has been transferred to a heavily guarded, undisclosed location. His health has worsened significantly during his detention.
Entwistle said that her father is now suffering from a chest infection, a double eye infection, and severe digestive issues due to poor nutrition. “Without immediate access to necessary medication, his life is in serious danger,” she added.
Peter has also reportedly been “beaten and shackled,” enduring “immense pain,” while Barbie has been told she cannot see her husband.
The family has learned that male prisoners are given three meals a day, while female prisoners, including Barbie, are only receiving one meal.
The exact reasons for the couple’s detention remain unclear, but it is believed they were arrested for running a course teaching parenting skills to mothers.
The Reynolds had lived in Afghanistan for nearly 20 years, operating an educational consultancy called Rebuild. They had obtained local permission for the course, and Barbie had even received a certificate of appreciation from the Taliban.
The couple was scheduled to travel to the United States in April to celebrate Peter’s 80th birthday with their family.
The UK Foreign Office has confirmed it is providing support to the family, but has not released further details.
The Reynolds’ family is urgently appealing to the Taliban for their release, emphasizing the need for medical care.
There is no clear indication of when, or if, they will be freed.
