A former Afghan police worker whose details appeared in a 2022 Ministry of Defence data leak has received Taliban threats, while the UK has refused his application for resettlement despite years of service, according to the Guardian.
Key facts
- A man identified as Hamid worked for the Afghan national police special unit and received certificates praising his service, signed by senior British figures.
- His details were included in an accidental 2022 MoD leak that identified 18,700 Afghans who had worked with or for the British government.
- He has received threats from the Taliban following the exposure of his identity.
- The UK has refused his application for resettlement.
- He says he lives in 'constant fear' of reprisals.
A man who worked for the Afghan national police has received threats from the Taliban after his identity was exposed by a Ministry of Defence data leak, according to the Guardian. Despite his service, the UK has refused his application for resettlement.
The man, identified only as Hamid to protect his identity, worked for the Afghan national police special unit. The Guardian reports that he received certificates for his work, signed by senior British figures, which praised his “dedication, unparalleled service and leadership.”
Hamid’s details were among those included in an accidental 2022 leak by an MoD official. That breach identified 18,700 Afghans who had worked with or for the British government, according to the Guardian.
The exposure of his identity has resulted in threats from the Taliban, the outlet reports. Hamid is described as living in “constant fear” of reprisals as a consequence.
The Guardian says the UK refused his resettlement application despite what it describes as “years of loyal service.” The report highlights the gap between the recognition Hamid received for his work with British figures and the government’s decision on his resettlement request.
Why it matters
The case illustrates the real-world consequences of the 2022 MoD data breach, which exposed thousands of Afghans who assisted British efforts. It raises questions about the UK's obligations to those who worked alongside its forces and now face danger because their identities were revealed.
Frequently asked questions
How many people were affected by the 2022 MoD leak?
According to the Guardian, the accidental 2022 leak by an MoD official identified 18,700 Afghans who had worked with or for the British government.
Did the UK approve the man's resettlement application?
No. The Guardian reports that the UK refused his application for resettlement despite his years of service.
What work did the man do?
He worked for the Afghan national police special unit and received certificates signed by senior British figures praising his service and leadership, according to the Guardian.