Riyadh: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman has awarded a citizen the King Abdulaziz Medal (First Class) and a Saudi Riyals (SR) one million (Rs 2,33,15,687) financial reward for his courageous act of driving a burning truck away from a petrol station, preventing a potential disaster.
The royal recognition came on Thursday, August 21, in response to a proposal by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighting the bravery and quick thinking of Maher Fahd Al-Dalbahi, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
The incident occurred at a petrol station in Al-Jamsh town, Al-Dawadmi governorate, Riyadh region, when a truck carrying animal feed caught fire close to fuel pumps. The driver had abandoned the vehicle after failing to control the flames.
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Al-Dalbahi, who was travelling to his village, Al-Salihiya, noticed the blaze while stopping at a nearby store. Without hesitation, he climbed into the burning truck and moved it to a safe location, preventing a catastrophic explosion and saving numerous lives.
Footage of the incident quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention and praise for Al-Dalbahi’s heroism.
Watch the video here
#فيديو | قاد شاحنة مشتعلة.. شجاعة سعودي تمنع كارثة محققة بمحطة وقود#صحيفة_الخليج pic.twitter.com/tocK4o5Waf— صحيفة الخليج (@alkhaleej) August 17, 2025
The courageous act resulted in first- and second-degree burns to his face, head, and limbs. He was swiftly admitted to King Saud Medical City in Riyadh, where specialised medical teams are overseeing his recovery.
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Deputy Emir of Riyadh, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman, personally checked on his condition and directed authorities to ensure he receives the best care.
Note: The article has been updated for clarity.
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