Alexander Harris, a 30-year-old British and Irish citizen, was found dead in northern Pakistan after becoming separated from his friend during a descent of the Musa Ka Musalla mountain. Harris had been hiking with Alun David Cooper Cledwyn on Saturday when they became separated on the 13,000-foot mountain in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
According to Mansehra deputy commissioner Khalid Iqbal, the separation occurred due to a difference in their hiking speeds. Harris was reportedly one to two kilometers ahead of Cledwyn when the weather turned and it began to rain. Harris's body was discovered on a path within the Paracha Jungle, an area locals are said to generally avoid. The preliminary suspicion is that Harris slipped and fell.
An extensive search operation involving approximately 300 police officers and volunteers scoured the mountain. The search utilized both foot patrols and drones. Running groups to which Harris belonged, Islamabad Run with Us and Margalla Trail Runners, posted pleas for information and tributes to Harris. Margalla Trail Runners noted that Harris had apparently strayed onto an incorrect trail due to adverse weather and reduced visibility.
Harris, who resided in Islamabad and worked for the global advisory company Adam Smith International, was described as an experienced hiker who had previously climbed Musa Ka Musalla. He had traveled to the Siran Valley on Friday with Cledwyn. Hotel staff had offered Harris a guide and security, but he declined, stating he was familiar with the area. It is understood that the pair had not informed authorities or obtained necessary paperwork before their ascent.
A spokesperson for Adam Smith International stated that Harris had a deep affection for Pakistan, its people, and its nature, and had been learning Urdu. The company expressed gratitude to all who participated in the search effort, including local residents, volunteers, police, rescue teams, the forest department, and the government of Pakistan.
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed it is supporting Harris's family and is in contact with local authorities.