Former British Ambassador Richard Morris missing, major search operation ongoing


Left: Former Ambassador Morris at a function in 2017, Right: Morris shares an image with Nepali Gurkha soldiers. (Image: Twitter)

Former British Ambassador to Nepal, Richard Morris has been missing since 6th May from Bentley area in the UK. Police were alerted after Mr. Morris failed to return after a run.

Mr Morris, 52, , and is set to begin his new role as British High Commissioner to the Republic of Fiji in July 2020.

Mr. Morris, has held a number of high profile positions in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). He served as the British Ambassador to Nepal from November, 2015 to November, 2019. From 2013 to 2015, he was Head of Pacific Department at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, and from 2008 to 2012, Morris was Consul General in Sydney and Director General Trade and Investment (Australasia).

Morris had returned home to the UK last year upon completing his term in Nepal. He was expected to take up the role as British High Commissioner to Fiji and Head of the Pacific Network in July 2020.

According to British media, Mr. Morris has been deemed “high risk” because of his Government role, and police and other agencies have launched an exhaustive search operation comprising of dog search and rescue teams and air support.

Mr. Morris was also a great friend of Nepal – he had arrived in Kathmandu, six months after the earthquake, and had extended great support on behalf of the British Government to assist Nepal in its reconstruction efforts. On his social media platforms, Mr. Morris would be seen sharing images of his travels to several areas of Nepal, his experiences, and his profound beauty for Nepal’ natural beauty.

Reports of him missing has gravely affected his family and his well-wishers. Police too have appealed to the public for assistance:

“If you see him, or think you may have seen him since 10.30 this morning please call us on 101, quoting reference 627 of today’s date (7th May) , or 44200160398.”, spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said.

Richard was last seen wearing a blue long sleeved top with a half xip, black shorts, and blue trainers.