Brit couple Craig and Lindsay Foreman detained in Iran while on round-the-world motorbike trip
A BRITISH couple have been detained in Iran while on a round-the-world motorbike trip.
Craig and Lindsay Foreman were first scooped up the Islamic Republic’s draconian security services in January.
Their family issued a heartbreaking plea for them to be returned home and revealed fears for their safety.
The husband and wife – both in their early 50s – were today named by the Foreign Office.
Craig and Lindsay – a carpenter and a life coach – hail from East Sussex, but had moved to southern Spain in 2019.
Their relocation featured on Channel 4‘s show A New Life in the Sun.
Iranian state media released blurred pictures on the couple earlier this week as they met with UK ambassador Hugo Shorter.
The regime – known for its cruelty and freedom crackdowns – used its tightly controlled press to say the pair had been detained on unspecified “security” offences.
Iran has arrested Brits on trumped up charges before – such as the infamous case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe.
She ended up being held for nearly six years between 2016 and 2022 before being freed and returning to the UK.
Lindsay had acknowledged the risks of travelling to Iran against Foreign Office advice was “slightly scary”.
The Foremans were on the trip of a lifetime, bound for Australia and passing through various countries along the route.
They crossed into Iran from Armenia on December 30, with plans to reach Pakistan by January 4.
The pair stayed in hotel in the cities of Tabriz, Tehran and Isfahan, accompanied by a tour guide.
They then travelled on to Kerman, a provincial capital in the centre of the country, but never made it to their booked hotel.
The couple had been documenting their travels on social media, and described their joy at being in Iran.
Shortly before being arrested, Lindsay said she was having “an amazing time”.
Craig had gushed over the “lovely people” they encountered in the equally “lovely” country.
Lindsay posted a picture of herself on January 3 meeting a religious leader in the town of Isfahan.
The caption on Instagram said: “Travel continues to teach me that humanity’s core is shared: kindness, humility, and respect for one another.”
And on Facebook that same day, she wrote: “Despite differences in culture, language, and traditions, we’ve seen something beautifully universal: kindness, humour, hospitality – and a shared love of good food!”
Lindsay was reportedly working on a research project along the way, asking people what it means to be a human and for the secrets to a well-lived life.
She had intended to share her findings at a positive psychology conference in Brisbane in July.
The Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to Iran, warning of a “significant risk” of arrest, questioning or detention.
The ministry today released the following message on behalf of the family:
“We would like to take this opportunity to address the distressing situation concerning Craig and Lindsay Foreman who are currently being detained in Kerman, Iran.
“This unexpected turn of events has caused significant concern for our entire family, and we are deeply focused on ensuring their safety and well-being during this trying time.
“We are actively engaging with the British government and relevant authorities, working diligently to navigate the complexities of this matter. The family are united in our determination to secure their safe return.
“We truly appreciate the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the community, which has provided us with strength and encouragement as we face this ordeal.
“In light of the circumstances, we kindly ask for the utmost respect regarding our family’s privacy.
“The emotional burden of this situation weighs heavily on us, and we request that all media inquiries be directed to the FCDO as we manage this challenging chapter in our lives.”
Before the arrest, Lindsay had written on Instagram: “Yes, we’re aware of the risks.
“But we also know the rewards of meeting incredible people, hearing their stories, and seeing the breathtaking landscapes of these regions could far outweigh the fear.
“From the vast deserts of Iran to the towering peaks of Pakistan, we hope to share the beauty, hospitality, and humanity that often go unnoticed.”