A British couple in their 70s, who have dedicated nearly two decades to running training projects in Afghanistan, have been arrested by the Taliban.

The couple, who have been actively involved in educational initiatives since 2009, are known for operating training programs in five schools in Kabul and another in Bamiyan, which focused on supporting mothers and children. While the exact reason for their arrest remains unclear, one of their projects—training mothers and children—had reportedly been approved by local authorities, despite the Taliban's strict bans on women's employment and education for girls over the age of 12.

Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, told The Sunday Times that her parents "were just trying to help the country they loved."

The couple’s deep connection to Afghanistan dates back to their youth. They first met at the University of Bath and later married in Kabul in 1970. When the Taliban regained control in August 2021, most foreigners, including their staff, fled the country. However, Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds chose to stay, believing they could not abandon Afghanistan in its time of need.

"They were meticulous about following the rules, even as they kept changing," said their daughter, who lives in Daventry, Northamptonshire.

Following their arrest, the couple initially remained in contact with their four children via text messages. The family was aware that their parents were "being held by the interior ministry" and were reassured that they were "fine." However, after three days, all communication ceased, and the children have heard nothing since.

Sarah expressed her distress, particularly over her father’s health, as he is nearly 80 and requires heart medication following a mini-stroke. "My mother is 75, and my father needs his medication. The idea that they are being held because they were teaching mothers with children is outrageous," she said.

In a heartfelt plea, Sarah and her three brothers have written a letter to the Taliban, urging them to release their parents.

"We do not understand the reasons behind their arrest," the letter reads. "They have always expressed their trust in you and believed that as Afghan citizens, they would be treated well. We recognize that exchanges have sometimes taken place between your government and western nations, but our parents have always been committed to Afghanistan and would rather sacrifice their lives than be used in ransom negotiations."

The family remains in contact with the UK Foreign Office, though efforts to secure their release are complicated by the UK’s lack of diplomatic relations with the Taliban and the absence of a British embassy in Kabul. Photo by Weaveravel, Wikimedia commons.