A British national lost his life to gunshot wounds while another remains incarcerated in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), amid widespread social unrest and security force crackdowns in the region. The deceased, identified as 50-year-old Mohammad Akhtar from Peterborough, died on June 9 during violent clashes near his residence. The incident has intensified international scrutiny regarding human rights violations and police actions in the region.
Fatal Shooting Near Civilian Residence
Family members clarified that Mohammad Akhtar was not participating in any demonstration when the shooting occurred. On the day of the incident, severe confrontations broke out between local demonstrators and security forces close to his residence. Akhtar was caught in the crossfire as security personnel discharged live ammunition, hitting him in the chest. His cousin, Mohammad Saad, confirmed that indiscriminate firing by security forces directly led to Akhtar's death.
Fear of Retaliation Prevents Legal Action
Despite the tragic loss, Akhtar's family refrained from lodging a formal police complaint with local authorities. Relatives expressed deep anxiety over potential retaliation, fearing they would be targeted by officials if they pursued legal accountability. Meanwhile, another British citizen has been held in custody in a local prison for over two months under undisclosed circumstances.
Widespread Agitation and Global Backlash
The unrest in PoK stems from rising public outrage over economic hardships, political representation, and human rights abuses, which have triggered deadly clashes resulting in dozens of civilian casualties. In response, members of the diaspora organized protests outside Pakistani consulates in the United Kingdom and the United States. Furthermore, over 30 British lawmakers have sent formal letters demanding accountability from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir regarding security operations in the territory.
