British company director in Jordan shot dead with Kalashnikov 'by fired employee'

A British national passed away after allegedly being shot dead at a Jordanian factory in Aqaba governorate, according to local media reports and a statement from Jordanian officials on Monday.

The UK national reportedly held a managerial role in the company and was attacked by a masked man who stormed the factory and opened fire with a Kalashnikov rifle, according to local media reports.

At least two others, a Serbian and a Jordanian, were reportedly injured in the attack and taken to hospital, according to a statement by the Public Security Directorate. It was later announced that the British national had died from their injuries. 

The Public Security Directorate said in a statement on Tuesday that the suspect was arrested after a 24-hour man-hunt and allegedly followed the dismissal of an employee.

Footage circulated online apparently depicted a masked man storming the factory and shooting three people with the assault rifle.

Jordanian sources reported that the suspect, originally from Karak Governorate in southern Jordan, allegedly carried out the attack after being fired from their job a few weeks prior.

The New Arab cannot verify these claims and has contacted the British embassy in Amman for comment.

The Aqaba Special Economic Zone, where the incident is said to have taken place, is a free zone hub for various industries, including chemicals and logistics, and where some workers allegedly face difficult working conditions.

In 2024, reports indicated that there were 173 labor lawsuits filed during the first half of the year.