Hero Uses Bulletproof BMW to Save Over 70 Lives

Ako Abdulrahan, a Kurdish Peshmerga soldier, is no stranger to danger. Living in the ISIS-surrounded warzone of Kirkuk, Iraq, gunfire is unfortunately weaved into the fabric of daily life. Sensing the need for protection in this unpredictable environment, Ako recently purchased a 1990’s era, bulletproof BMW 7-Series sedan.

“My friends were very happy when I bought an armored car,” Ako told CNN. Little did they know how happy they’d be.

On October 21, ISIS carried out attacks on Kirkuk, opening fire on civilians and security forces, killing 64 people. This death toll would have been much higher if it weren’t for the courageous actions of Ako. Trusting his new purchase, Ako drove directly into the line of fire to pick up wounded people, returning over and over, despite taking on heavy gunfire. Ako’s bravery saved the lives of more than 70 people.

“I kept telling myself: my people are in danger, they need me, my city is in danger, I have to protect it.”

When word got out about Ako’s unselfish actions, he was honored by the governor and offered a new vehicle from BMW. With his car riddled with more than 50 bullet holes, Ako continued to keep it heroic, as he turned down this offer, choosing to repair his own car instead.

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Via [CNN]