Tributes have been paid to a 28-year-old off-duty police officer who was found dead in Bristol after disappearing on a night out.
Rehaan Akhtar was out with friends when he was last seen in the early hours of Sunday near the Arnolfini art gallery, which sits adjacent to Bristol Harbourside.
After he went missing and the alarm was raised, authorities launched a search for him. Tragically, the officer’s body was recovered from the water by divers.
Mr Akhtar, who is from the Welsh town Llanelli, roughly an hour and a half from Bristol, was a police constable for South Wales Police. He had initially joined the force as a police community support officer (PCSO) in Cardiff in October 2021 before becoming a PC based in Swansea in September last year.
Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan said he was ‘shocked’ and ‘saddened’ at the police officer’s sudden death and offered his condolences to his family.
He added: ‘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.
Rehaan Akhtar, 28, was out with friends when he was last seen in the early hours of Sunday near the Arnolfini art gallery
‘On behalf of South Wales Police, I offer our heartfelt condolences to all of those impacted by his passing.’
Avon and Somerset Police said Mr Akhtar’s death was not being treated as suspicious and his family were being offered specialist support.
‘We keep them in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time,’ a spokesman said.
‘We are treating this death as unexplained, but not suspicious, and will be preparing a file for the coroner. We would like to thank the public for sharing our appeal.’
Described as a ‘talented footballer’, he played for football team Calsonic Kansei Swiss Valley AFC (CKSV), who play in the West Wales Premier League.
The club have now paid tribute to him, saying: ‘It is with great sadness that we share the devastating news of the passing of Rehaan Akhtar.
‘Rehaan was a committed first team player, a passionate footballer, and a valued presence both on and off the pitch. He was a friend to many, known for his positivity, determination, and love for the game.
‘Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Rehaan’s family, friends and all who knew him during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed by everyone at CKSV and beyond.’
Rehaan’s former club, Trallwm Tigers FC, also said: ‘We’re deeply saddened to hear about the passing of former Trallwm FC player Rehaan Akhtar and current player of CKSV AFC.
‘Raheen was not only a talented footballer but a kind and humble person. He gave everything on the pitch and brought warmth, positivity, and commitment off it.
‘His presence made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of playing alongside him.
‘Our deepest condolences to his family and all who knew him. Very sad times and a such a bright life taken far too soon. RIP Rehaan Akhtar.’
Llangennech AFC also said: ‘We’re deeply saddened to hear of Rehaan’s passing. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates and all at CKSV during this incredibly difficult time.
‘A much-loved young man taken far too soon. Our thoughts are with you all.’
Formal identification is due to take place and Rehaan’s family are being supported by specialist officers.
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: ‘We are saddened to report that a body has been recovered from the water during the search for missing 28-year-old Rehaan.
‘While formal identification has not yet taken place, we have updated his family and they are being offered support by a specialist family liaison officer.’
He was described as being roughly 5ft 11ins tall, of muscular build with short dark hair, a dark beard and moustache. He was last seen wearing a black Levi’s top, grey cargo trousers and a navy jumper.
An inquest is due to be held.
