A 28-year-old police officer is believed to have drowned after disappearing during a night out with friends in Bristol, a coroner's court has been told.
Details of the Tragic Incident
PC Rehaan Akhtar, who was from Llanelli and served with South Wales Police, was last seen in the early hours of Saturday, 23 November. He had been socialising with friends in Bristol city centre.
The officer was reported missing after he failed to return to the hostel where he was staying. Following a search, his body was recovered by divers from Bristol Harbourside on the morning of Sunday, 24 November.
Coroner's Findings and Police Tribute
Avon Coroner’s Court heard that a post-mortem examination gave a provisional cause of death as drowning. The inquest into PC Akhtar's death has been opened and adjourned.
In a heartfelt statement, South Wales Police Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan expressed his shock and sadness. "I was shocked and saddened to learn of Rehaan’s passing," he said. "At this difficult time, our hearts go out to Rehaan’s family and friends, and we will do all we can to support them."
Chief Constable Vaughan paid tribute to PC Akhtar's service, noting he had served the community with pride and professionalism, first as a PCSO and then as a police officer. "I know he was greatly respected and liked by his colleagues and those he met as part of his day-to-day duties," he added.
A Force in Mourning
The sudden death has sent waves of grief through the South Wales Police force. Colleagues are being offered support as they come to terms with the loss.
The Chief Constable concluded his statement by saying, "On behalf of South Wales Police, I offer our heartfelt condolences to all of those impacted by his passing." The thoughts of the wider policing community are with PC Akhtar's loved ones during this profoundly difficult time.
