In Afghanistan, he had been sentenced to death by a local commander after he was deemed to have been involved in an 'illegal' relationship.  The case against him was both fabricated and frought with the corruption that characterises his native province of Ghazni; Gool did not receive a fair trial and had no chance to defend himself.  On 29/08/2002 he arrived in the UK clandestinely, after escaping from prison in Ghazni.  He has been living in the UK ever since, having had the support from friends and family so he has not had to work illegally.

Following subsequent rejections, Gool was arrested and detained in Scotland and then near Gatwick Airport in March 2010, where he was given removal instructions to return to Afghanistan.  An injunction at the time meant Gool managed to be released from detention, but there was no change to his status.

As a result of the constant physical and psychological strain he has been put under since 2002, Gool has developed serious complex mental health problems including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety and depression.  These conditions are borne from the fear of returning to Afghanistan (which is still perceived as a death sentence).  Further, if he was forced to return to Afghanistan, it is extremely unlikely that Gool would be able to continue with his medication.

Contacts in Afghanistan have confirmed that his sentence still awaits him if he were to return, and a recent conversation with his sister has emphasised the Taliban's influence and control in Ghazni.

Gool has just completed his ESOL Level 1 training.  He has the support of his local community, in particular of the teh Welcome Centre in Cheetham Hill where he has been a volunteer for two years.  Many people in the local community are supporting his campaign to remain in the UK and to live a life free from fear after 10 long years.