The body of a young police officer who disappeared during a night out has been recovered from a harbour in Bristol.
Officer's Disappearance and Recovery
Rehaan Akhtar, a 28-year-old constable from Llanelli, Wales, was last seen in the early hours of Sunday, November 23. The final sighting of the South Wales Police officer was near the Arnolfini art gallery, located next to Bristol Harbourside.
Following an extensive search, divers located and recovered Mr Akhtar's body from the water on Monday, November 24. Avon and Somerset Police, who led the investigation into his disappearance, confirmed the tragic discovery.
Tributes to a Dedicated Officer
Heartfelt tributes have been paid to the officer, who began his service with the force as a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) in Cardiff in October 2021.
He demonstrated his commitment to public service by becoming a Police Constable based in Swansea in September 2023.
Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan expressed his profound sadness, stating: "I was shocked and saddened to learn of Rehaan’s passing. At this difficult time, our hearts go out to Rehaan’s family and friends and we will do all we can to support them."
He added that during his time with South Wales Police, Rehaan served the community with pride and professionalism and was "greatly respected and liked by his colleagues".
Police Investigation and Family Support
Avon and Somerset Police have stated that they are not treating the officer's death as suspicious.
A police spokesman confirmed the force's position: "We are treating this death as unexplained, but not suspicious, and will be preparing a file for the coroner."
The force also mentioned that Mr Akhtar's family are being offered specialist support during this incredibly difficult time. They extended thanks to the public for their assistance in sharing the initial appeal for information.
