British couple detained in Iran during motorbike trip

The couple’s family is working with the UK government to ensure their safe return.

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The family of British nationals Craig and Lindsay Foreman has called for their safe return after the couple was detained in Iran on unspecified security charges.

The pair, aged 52, were arrested in January, but news of their detention emerged only on Thursday when state-run Iranian media reported their arrest. The couple had been on a motorbike journey across the world, originally planning to spend just five days in Iran.

The couple, who had crossed into Iran from Armenia on December 30, were travelling towards Pakistan when they were arrested in Kerman, Iran. They had already visited cities including Tabriz, Tehran, and Isfahan, and had shared their positive experiences on social media, describing the kindness and hospitality of the Iranian people.

In a statement issued on behalf of their family, the couple's relatives expressed deep concern over the situation and called on the British government to act swiftly. “This unexpected turn of events has caused significant concern for our entire family, and we are deeply focused on ensuring their safety and well-being during this trying time," the statement said.

The couple had been in Iran as part of a wider journey to Australia, and Lindsay Foreman, a life coach, had been conducting a research project on human connection during her travels. She had even acknowledged the risks of travelling to Iran and Pakistan, but had expressed her desire to meet local people and explore the culture.

The Foreign Office confirmed it is providing consular assistance and is in contact with local authorities. The couple’s detention comes amid increasing concern over the arrest of foreign nationals in Iran, with many detained on vague charges that human rights groups allege are often used for political leverage.

The British government has issued travel warnings, urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran, citing the high risk of arrest for dual nationals or those with British ties.