Release of Four British Men Following Detention in Afghanistan

Four British nationals, including a UN aid worker, have been released from detention in Afghanistan. The release has been welcomed by the UK Foreign Office, which expressed gratitude for their freedom. Two of the individuals were identified as Kevin Cornwell, a 54-year-old UN aid worker, and Miles Routledge. The Presidium Network, an organization supporting the group, stated that two of the men may require medical assistance. The Foreign Office expressed regret for the situation and apologized on behalf of the families of the British nationals for any violations of Afghan laws. The reasons for their detainment, their current location, and their health status have not been disclosed by the Foreign Office. The Presidium Network is assisting Mr. Cornwell and another unnamed person, and efforts are underway to reunite them with their families. The organization's co-founder, Scott Richards, announced on social media that the men had been released and were returning home. He also mentioned that the families would need some time before speaking with the media and that two of the men may require medical aid. Mr. Cornwell, a paramedic working for UNHCR in Kabul, was detained in January, and his health reportedly worsened over time. The Presidium Network previously stated that Mr. Cornwell was seriously ill, and there were concerns about his return. The weapon that led to his detention was reportedly stored in a safe in his room, but the license for it was missing. The second released individual, identified as Mr. Routledge, is a former student from Loughborough University known for his travels to dangerous countries and sharing about them on social media. In August 2021, he was evacuated from Afghanistan by the British armed forces. He described himself as "exhausted but relieved" and extended gratitude to those involved in his evacuation.