Military interpreter believed to be facing deportation found dead in West Bromwich house
An interpreter who worked alongside British forces in Afghanistan and was believed to have been facing deportation from the UK has been found dead in the Black Country.
Nangyalai Dawoodzai was discovered at a house in Nicholls Street, West Bromwich. Police said they were not treating his death as suspicious.
Claims that the 29-year-old was 'deeply depressed' and suicidal have surfaced following his death, prompting criticism of the Government over the treatment of a man who worked in war zones alongside British troops.
It is believed Dawoodzai was living in the UK illegally after arriving from Afghanistan and was set to be deported having been told he did not qualify for asylum.
However, it is understood Dawoodzai made contact with immigration officials himself in February about a possible return to Afghanistan.
West Midlands Police spokeswoman Kate Baker confirmed officers were called to the property in West Bromwich on Wednesday, April 27.
She said: "We were called to a report of man found collapsed on Nicholls Street, West Bromwich, at around 9.30pm on April 27.
"Unfortunately, there was nothing that could be done to save the man and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
"The death is not being treated as suspicious and has been referred to the coroner."
West Bromwich councillor Patricia Davies said she was stunned to learn of the interpreter's death in the town.
She said: "I am very sad and shocked. It is heartbreaking news given his life and service supporting our soldiers. I can only commiserate and offer sympathy for the family at this very sad time."
The Home Office said the UK 'has a proud history of granting asylum to those who need it' but that it 'can take time to properly consider each claim on its individual merits'.
Spokesman Keir Ferguson said: "We are very saddened by this tragic case. As investigations are continuing, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."
Former Liberal Democrats leader Lord Ashdown has previously called for interpreters who worked with British forces to be allowed to remain in the UK as a sign of gratitude for their service.
He said: "These people will have been at the frontline day in, day out, with no break for years. Given the way they have been treated, who in the future will ever offer to be an interpreter to help British soldiers do their job when we treat those who have served our troops so scandalously?"
