Man found dead after night out was 'greatly respected' city copper

A MAN from Llanelli who died following a night out with friends in Bristol was a “greatly respected” police officer with South Wales Police, it has been confirmed.

- ROBERT HARRIES, BRYANA FRANCIS & ALEX DRISCOLL

Rehaan Akhtar, who was 28, was the subject of a missing person search after he was last seen near the Arnolfini in Bristol during the early hours of Sunday. The following day, Avon and Somerset Police said that a body was recovered from water during the search.

South Wales Police has now confirmed Mr Akhtar was a serving officer, having joined the force in Cardiff in October 2021.

He went on to train as a police officer and became a police constable in Swansea in September 2023.

Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan of South Wales Police 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.