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Maher Fahad Al Dalbahi, a Saudi man whose heroic act potentially saved dozens of lives on Friday, has been honoured with the King Abdulaziz Medal (First Class). Al Dalbahi has also been awarded a cash prize of SR 1 million (Rs 2.3 crore) for his bravery.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, Al-Dalbahi demonstrated took control of a burning fuel truck and drove it away from a gas station, thereby preventing significant danger and saving lives.
The incident happened in Al Jamsh, in the Al Dawadmi governorate, about 300 kilometres from Riyadh on Friday, when a truck loaded with animal feed caught fire. Unable to control the blaze, the driver of the truck fled, abandoning the vehicle near a gas pump.
Al Dalbahi, who is in his 40s, was driving home when he spotted the burning truck and recognised the danger it posed, he jumped inside the enflamed vehicle and drove it to an open area, away from the gas pumping station.
His timely action averted a potential disaster, and Civil Defense teams eventually brought the blaze under control.
Al Dalbahi, who works as a supervisor for school security guards, suffered third-degree burns on his body and is currently under treatment at the King Saud Medical City in Riyadh. Videos of his heroic act soon went viral on social media and Al-Dalbahi won praises from the general public and authorities alike.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman praised Al Dalbahi, calling his act “exceptional bravery” in the face of grave danger.
“The recognition reflects the leadership’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices of Saudi citizens who embody the values of courage, dedication, and selflessness, values inherited from the foundational principles upon which the Kingdom was built,” Saudi Press Agency said, announcing the King Abdulaziz Medal and cash reward for Al-Dalbahi.
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