Colonel Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri of Dubai Police hands a police medal to Indian expat Shahvez Khan. DUBAI POLICE

Dubai Police has honored 28-year-old Indian expatriate Shahvez Khan for his bravery in rescuing five people from a sinking SUV during last year’s April floods. Khan was awarded a police medal and a cash reward of Dh1,000 at a recent ceremony at Dubai Police Headquarters. On April 16, 2024, as torrential rains flooded Dubai, Khan had just completed his Asr prayers when he spotted a yellow SUV submerged near Coca-Cola Arena. Without hesitation, he jumped 20 feet into the water and, with the help of a hammer passed by a nearby worker, shattered the vehicle’s glass roof to rescue the trapped occupants. “I can still see their faces—panic-stricken, pounding on the windows, gasping for air,” Khan recalled. “There was no time to think, only to act.” Despite sustaining deep cuts on his hands and feet, Khan managed to lead all five individuals—a Filipina, an Indian man and woman, and two Arab men—to safety. Colonel Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri, Acting Director for Community Happiness, presented Khan with a certificate, medal, and cheque, acknowledging his heroism. Reflecting on the honor, Khan said, “It was never about recognition, but knowing that people remember and appreciate it means a lot. I only hope this encourages others to help when they see someone in trouble.” His family in Meerut, India, was overjoyed by the recognition. “My mother kept saying, ‘You scared us that day, but today, you’ve made us proud,’” he shared. ICA/Expat Media
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