PC Rehaan Akhtar, 28, was last seen in the city centre in the early hours of 22 November while out with friends. He failed to return to the hostel where he was staying, sparking a major search.
Two days later, his body was recovered from Bristol’s harbourside. He was formally identified by his mother.
At Avon Coroner’s Court, the assistant coroner confirmed a provisional cause of death as drowning. The inquest has been adjourned until 24 February.
Tributes from South Wales Police
South Wales Police said PC Akhtar had first joined the force as a Police Community Support Officer in Cardiff in 2021 before training as a constable and taking up a post in Swansea in September 2023.
A statement from the force said: “It is with immense sadness that we confirm the passing of our colleague and friend PC 8650 Rehaan Akhtar. Rehaan served our communities with pride and professionalism and was greatly respected by colleagues and the public alike.”
Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan added:
“I was shocked and saddened to learn of Rehaan’s passing. At this difficult time, our hearts go out to his family and friends, and we will do all we can to support them.”
Football clubs mourn “talented” player
Away from policing, Rehaan was a well‑known footballer in the West Wales Premier League. His current club, Calsonic Kansei Swiss Valley AFC (CKSV), described him as “a committed first team player, a passionate footballer, and a valued presence both on and off the pitch.”
His former side, Trallwm Tigers FC, said he was “not only a talented footballer but a kind and humble person” who “gave everything on the pitch and brought warmth, positivity, and commitment off it.”
Llangennech AFC also paid tribute, calling him “a much‑loved young man taken far too soon.”
Community shock
The alarm was first raised when Rehaan failed to return to his accommodation in Bristol. Friends and colleagues described him as a “talented footballer” and a dedicated officer whose death has left a deep impact across Llanelli and Swansea.
The inquest will resume in February, when further details surrounding the circumstances of his death are expected to be heard.
