British trekker's body found in northern Pakistan
The 30-year-old from Birmingham went missing on Saturday as he was descending from Musa Ka Musala.
The remains of a British trekker have been discovered in northern Pakistan, according to local officials.
Alexander Harris, a Birmingham native, vanished on Saturday while descending Musa Ka Musala, a mountain in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province standing just over 4,000m (13,000ft) tall.
Khalid Iqbal, the area's deputy commissioner, stated that police and volunteers participated in the search for Harris, 30, and that his body was located on a forest path. Iqbal speculated that Harris "most probably... slipped and fell."
Harris, who resided in Islamabad, Pakistan's capital, and worked for the global advisory firm Adam Smith International, was suspected of having slipped and fallen.
Harris, who also held Irish citizenship, began his trek around 05:40 local time on Saturday with a hiking companion. After taking photos at the summit, they started their descent and became separated.
Iqbal explained, "There was a difference in their speed. He [Harris] was moving faster, he got about 1-2km ahead. Then it started raining."
The deputy commissioner estimated that 250-300 individuals, including police and volunteers, were involved in the rescue operation, searching on foot and with drones, though drone use was hampered by poor visibility.
A passionate hiker and trail runner, Harris regularly competed in long-distance races in Pakistan.
Iqbal noted that the two trekkers had not informed authorities of their trip. "The hotel had offered him a guide and police security," Iqbal said. "But he said that he knew the area and did not need any help."
Alexander Harris was employed by a global advisory company in Islamabad.
In a statement, Adam Smith International expressed their devastation at Harris's death, calling him a "much loved member" of their team.
His company stated: "He cared deeply for Pakistan, its people, its nature, and learned Urdu during his time there."
The company added: "We are deeply grateful to the hundreds of people who joined the search effort, including local residents, volunteers, police, rescue teams, forest department, members of Alex's trail running community, and the government of Pakistan that supported the operation. They searched tirelessly in difficult conditions, often in heavy rain, fog and poor visibility, over steep and challenging terrain."
It concluded: "Our thoughts are with Alex's family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time. We remain focused on supporting his family."
Harris's running group, Margalla Trail Runners, posted on social media, describing him as "a passionate trail runner."
They added: "May his soul rest in peace and may his family and loved ones find strength and comfort during this difficult time."
The UK Foreign Office has been contacted for comment.