Saudi authorities have publicly identified the security officer who sustained injuries while preventing a suicide attempt at Islam’s holiest site. Rayan bin Saeed Al-Asiri, a member of the Special Force for the Security of the Grand Mosque, intervened when a man attempted to jump from an upper floor of Masjid Al Haram in Makkah on Thursday.
The Ministry of Interior confirmed the incident involved an individual attempting ‘to take his own life’ before security personnel intervened. During the rescue operation, Officer Al-Asiri suffered injuries while physically breaking the man’s fall, potentially saving the individual from fatal consequences.
In a significant recognition of his bravery, Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz personally called Officer Al-Asiri during his hospital recovery. The minister praised the officer’s exceptional courage, dedication, and high level of vigilance, emphasizing that his actions transcended mere professional duty.
Prince Abdulaziz characterized Al-Asiri’s intervention as ‘a humane and noble stance that represents the highest meanings of sacrifice and selflessness.’ He further noted that the officer’s conduct exemplifies the core values upheld by all Saudi security personnel in serving both religious and national interests, while demonstrating exceptional readiness and professional competence in handling emergency situations within the sacred premises.
The minister concluded the conversation with prayers for Al-Asiri’s swift recovery and expressed hope for his prompt return to duty, enabling him to continue serving visitors to the Grand Mosque. Images shared by Inside the Haramain showed the officer recovering in his hospital bed, accompanied by captions wishing for his quick recovery and divine acceptance of his efforts.