An Afghan police worker is facing Taliban threats after his identity was exposed by a Ministry of Defence leak, and the UK has refused his resettlement application under the Afghan relocations and assistance policy (Arap). Hamid*, who served with the Afghan national police special unit, received certificates signed by senior British figures praising his “dedication, unparalleled service and leadership.” His details were part of an accidental 2022 MoD leak that identified 18,700 Afghans who had worked with or for the British government.
Hamid has received multiple threats from the Taliban, including a video showing a man with a rifle under a Taliban flag threatening to pursue him. Despite his service, the MoD rejected his Arap application on 31 July, stating he had not provided evidence of “working alongside, in partnership with or closely supporting a UK government department.” He has 28 days to appeal.
Get Lifetime Access to Top AI Tools
Find Bleeding Edge Business Software at Scandalous Prices on Appsumo.
Background of the Arap Scheme
The UK government launched the Arap scheme on 1 April 2021 to relocate Afghan nationals who worked with British forces. It closed to new applications on 1 July 2024, but pre-existing applications continue to be processed. Under Arap, applicants must demonstrate high risk of death or serious injury due to their work.
Hamid's Case and Evidence
Hamid has submitted every document available, including certificates from British officials. He notes that former colleagues in the same unit have already been relocated to the UK. “This is extremely painful because I have already submitted every document available to me proving my service,” he said. His case raises serious questions about the treatment of Afghan partners.
The MoD leak in 2022 inadvertently exposed the identities of thousands of Afghans, putting them at immediate risk. The Taliban's return to power in August 2021 has made life dangerous for those who worked with Western forces.

Comparison of UK Resettlement Schemes
| Scheme | Eligibility | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Arap | Afghans employed by UK government | Closed to new applications, processing existing |
| Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS) | Vulnerable Afghans, including women and girls | Open for referrals |
| Family Reunion | Immediate family of British residents | Open |
Key Takeaways
- MoD leak exposed 18,700 Afghan workers, leading to Taliban threats.
- Hamid's Arap application rejected despite documented service.
- Appeal deadline is 28 days from rejection notice.
- UK government faces criticism over inconsistent decisions.
FAQ
What is the Arap scheme?
Why was Hamid's application refused?
What can Hamid do now?
Best Products We’ve Tested and Rated

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of shorts men, balls seniors, irons seniors, driver beginners, and rangefinder money. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.
Our testing team has hands-on reviews of shoes walking, hybrid clubs, clubs beginners, clubs seniors, and shirts men. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.