Musa Abdraim, a former boxer, heroically intervened to save a hostage at Almaty Airport, Kazakhstan. He replaced the hostage, a young security guard, held at knifepoint by an attacker. Abdraim’s actions led to the assailant’s arrest and earned him a state medal for bravery from Kazakhstan’s President. He acted out of a sense of duty, reflecting on parental instincts and past combat sports experience.
Musa Abdraim, a former boxing champion, bravely intervened during a hostage situation at Almaty Airport, Kazakhstan. At the age of 52, Abdraim stepped in to replace a terrified 21-year-old security guard who was being held at knifepoint by an assailant claiming to possess a bomb in his backpack. As a father of five, Abdraim displayed remarkable courage amidst the frightening scenario.
The incident unfolded when a 67-year-old man, confronted at the security checkpoint for identification, reacted violently. He brandished a knife, threatened the young guard, and asserted he had an explosive device. Abdraim, witnessing the escalating threat, took immediate action to rescue the hostage. He offered himself in exchange for the guard’s freedom, a risky decision that the attacker ultimately accepted.
Seizing an opportune moment, Abdraim tackled the attacker after the swap was agreed upon, managing to grab the knife’s blade during the ensuing struggle. With the assistance of security personnel and police, the assailant was subdued and taken into custody. Abdraim later recounted that he heard the girl’s screams upon arriving at the airport and felt it was imperative to act, motivated by parental instincts.
In recognition of his bravery, Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev presented Abdraim with a state medal. Abdraim reflected on his motivations, stating he felt a strong sense of duty, emphasizing that he did not fear for his own life. He also briefly mentioned his background in various forms of combat sports, although he noted it had been some time since he had actively participated.
Kazakh officials indicated that the attacker could face a maximum of 12 years in prison for his threatening conduct, marking a significant response to the grave incident.
Musa Abdraim’s courageous intervention during the hostage scenario at Almaty Airport serves as an exemplary act of bravery, showcasing the power of selflessness in the face of danger. His quick thinking not only saved a young woman’s life but also earned him national recognition for his valor. The incident underscores the critical importance of courage in emergency situations and exemplifies the innate heroism that individuals can demonstrate under pressure.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com