A 30-year-old British man, Alexander Harris, has been found dead in northern Pakistan after becoming separated from his hiking companion on a mountain descent. Harris had been trekking up the 13,000-foot Musa Ka Musalla mountain in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday with his friend, Alun David Cooper Cledwyn.

According to Khalid Iqbal, the Mansehra deputy commissioner, the pair became separated during their descent after Harris moved ahead due to a difference in their walking pace. "There was a difference in their speed," Iqbal stated. "[Mr Harris] was moving faster, he got about one to two kilometers ahead. Then it started raining."

The body was discovered on a path within the Paracha Jungle, an area locals reportedly avoid. It is suspected that Harris, a trail runner, slipped and fell. An extensive search operation involving approximately 300 police officers and volunteers was conducted on foot and using drones.

Harris, who also held Irish citizenship, was described as an experienced hiker who had previously climbed Musa Ka Musalla. He had been residing in Islamabad, Pakistan's capital, where he worked for the global advisory firm Adam Smith International. Sources indicate that Harris and Cledwyn traveled to the Siran Valley on Friday and did not inform authorities or secure the necessary paperwork before starting their ascent early Saturday.

Running groups Harris was associated with, including Islamabad Run with Us and Margalla Trail Runners, posted appeals for information and later tributes. Margalla Trail Runners suggested that Harris may have strayed onto an incorrect trail due to adverse weather conditions and reduced visibility, leading to a fall. Islamabad Run with Us reported he was last seen by his friend near Gali, the mountain's base camp.

Adam Smith International confirmed Harris's deep affection for Pakistan, noting his efforts to learn Urdu and his fascination with the country's culture. The company expressed gratitude to the hundreds of individuals, including local residents, volunteers, police, rescue teams, and government officials, who participated in the search under challenging conditions.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed it is providing support to Harris's family and is in communication with local authorities.