The city of Bristol was rocked this week by the tragic news of the death of Police Constable Rehaan Akhtar, a 28-year-old officer from Llanelli, Wales, whose body was recovered from the city’s harbour on November 24, 2025. The incident, which followed his disappearance during a night out with friends, has left colleagues, friends, and the broader community mourning the loss of a “greatly respected” officer and cherished footballer.
Akhtar was last seen in the early hours of Sunday, November 23, near the Arnolfini art gallery—a well-known landmark beside Bristol’s harbourside. According to BBC and Bristol Live, a major search operation was swiftly launched after he was reported missing. The following day, divers recovered his body from the water, bringing a somber close to the search and sparking an outpouring of grief from those who knew him.
South Wales Police, where Akhtar served as a constable, confirmed his death and stated that it is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious. Avon and Somerset Police, who led the recovery effort, reiterated that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his passing and that a file would be prepared for the coroner. A spokesperson for the force said, “We keep them in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time. 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.”
Akhtar’s journey in policing began in October 2021, when he joined South Wales Police as a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) in Cardiff. His commitment and professionalism quickly became evident, and by September 2023, he had completed his training and joined the local team in Swansea as a full police constable. Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan of South Wales Police expressed his deep sorrow at the loss, noting the respect and admiration Akhtar garnered throughout his career. In a heartfelt statement, he said, “I was shocked and saddened to learn of Rehaan’s passing. 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.”
Akhtar’s family, who have been offered specialist support by the police, are said to be devastated by the sudden loss. The sense of shock has reverberated beyond the police force, reaching the communities he served and the football clubs where he was a valued presence. The tributes have poured in, painting a picture of a young man whose impact extended far beyond his official duties.
As reported by Bristol Live, Akhtar was not only dedicated to his role in law enforcement but was also a passionate and talented footballer. He played for Calsonic Kansei Swiss Valley AFC (CKSV), a team in the West Wales Premier League, and was remembered as a “passionate footballer” and a “valued presence.” The club expressed its grief, stating that he will be “deeply missed.” Other football clubs, including Trallwm Tigers Football Club and Llangennech AFC, also paid tribute. Trallwm Tigers wrote on Facebook: “[Rehaan] 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 such a bright life taken far too soon.”
The circumstances of Akhtar’s disappearance and subsequent death remain unclear, and while police have emphasized that there is no suspicion of foul play, the community is left grappling with unanswered questions. The harbourside area, typically bustling with nightlife and activity, became the focal point of a search that ended in heartbreak. Friends and colleagues have described Akhtar as someone who brought energy and compassion to every aspect of his life—whether in uniform or on the football pitch.
For many in the police force, Akhtar’s death is a stark reminder of the pressures and unpredictability that can come with the job, but also of the deep bonds formed among those who serve. Chief Constable Vaughan’s words captured this sentiment, emphasizing the pride and professionalism Akhtar brought to his work. The outpouring of respect from both within and outside the force serves as a testament to the young officer’s character.
Akhtar’s journey from PCSO to police constable was marked by dedication and a desire to make a difference. Starting in Cardiff, he quickly became known for his approachable manner and commitment to public service. His move to Swansea as a constable in September 2023 was seen as a natural progression for someone who had already made a positive impression on colleagues and community members alike.
As the police prepare a file for the coroner, the focus has shifted to supporting Akhtar’s family and friends through their grief. The police have extended their gratitude to the public for sharing appeals during the search and have assured the community that every step is being taken to provide answers and comfort to those affected. The support offered to Akhtar’s family underscores the close-knit nature of the police community and the broader network of care that surrounds those who serve.
The loss of Rehaan Akhtar has also prompted reflection within the footballing community. His teammates and coaches have remembered him not just for his skills on the pitch, but for his kindness, humility, and unwavering commitment to his friends and fellow players. The tributes highlight the deep connections formed through sport and the sense of family that clubs like CKSV foster.
As Bristol and Llanelli mourn the loss of a promising young officer and beloved footballer, there is a palpable sense of loss but also of gratitude for the positive impact Akhtar had in his 28 years. His legacy, as described by those who knew him, is one of service, camaraderie, and a genuine desire to uplift those around him. The communities he touched—whether through policing, football, or friendship—are left to honor his memory and support one another in the wake of this tragedy.
While the investigation into the circumstances of Akhtar’s death continues, the focus remains firmly on celebrating his life and the indelible mark he left on those who knew him. The tributes from colleagues, friends, and teammates serve as a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make, and the enduring bonds that unite communities in times of loss.
