Police confirm passing of colleague after night out in Bristol

A police force have confirmed the death of their “colleague and friend” whose body was found in a city centre harbour.

PC Rehaan Akhtar, from Llanelli, in Wales, disappeared on a night out with friends in Bristol and was last seen at around 01:00 GMT on Sunday near the city’s harbourside. His body was recovered on Monday.

Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan, from South Wales Police, said he was “shocked and saddened” to learn of Rehaan’s passing.

Avon and Somerset Police said they are treating this death as unexplained, but not suspicious, and will be preparing a file for the coroner.

Mr Akhtar, 28, began his career with South Wales Police as a Police community support officer in Cardiff in October 2021.

He went on to train as a police officer and joined the local team in Swansea as a police constable in September 2023.

Mr Vaughan 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.

“During his time with South Wales Police he served our communities with pride and professionalism as both a PCSO and 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.

“On behalf of South Wales Police, I offer our heartfelt condolences to all of those impacted by his passing.”