Afghan interpreters at work – including Popal whose identity has been concealed (Picture: Mail Online)

An Afghan military interpreter denied refuge by Britain has been tortured and murdered.

The man, known as Popal to UK soldiers, was captured in Iran after attempting to reach the West, the Mail Online reports.

A number of other interpreters are believed to have lost their lives in similar circumstances.

A source who served with British forces alongside Popal is quoted in the Mail as saying: ‘Anyone they find who has worked for Britain or allied forces is tortured and killed, the smugglers have told us, because they are seen as Western spies.


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The route from Afghanistan to Europe used by interpreters wanting to get out (Picture: Mail Online)

‘The smugglers warn us before we begin the journey that there is a good chance we will be captured and that if that happens “you are on your own”.



‘Some Afghans who were stopped making the journey to Europe have been enrolled in the Iranian military and sent to fight in Syria. Others have been brutally questioned. If you say you have worked for the British or the Americans, then it is likely you will be killed.’

The Popal is believed to have died near the Iranian city of Mashhad.

His demise comes after numerous death threats from Taliban agents.

But UK investigators did not take action due to a lack of evidence, the Mail adds.

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