Alim Ahmad Bhatti, Germany
On 3 March 2025, Mannheim witnessed a tragic event when Alexander S, a 40-year-old man, drove his car through a pedestrian zone, causing chaos and devastation, killing two people and leaving 14 others injured, some critically. The situation could have been far worse if not for the courageous actions of taxi driver Afzal Muhammad.
The bravery of A. Muhammad
A. Muhammad, a taxi driver of Pakistani origin who has lived in Mannheim for 15 years, intervened heroically to stop the attacker. He was waiting near Mannheim City Hall when he saw the car ploughing through pedestrians. Recognising the gravity of the situation, Muhammad acted swiftly – honking to alert bystanders, following the vehicle, and ultimately blocking the assailant’s path with his taxi.
The attacker, a man from Ludwigshafen, attempted to flee and even fired a blank gun at Muhammad. Initially seeking safety, Muhammad quickly realised his car could be used as a getaway vehicle. He rushed back to retrieve his keys, preventing further harm. His quick thinking and selfless actions earned him praise from officials and the public.
A message of unity and faith
Despite being hailed as a hero, Muhammad humbly dismissed the title. “I am not a hero. I am a Muslim. This is my duty. I am a Mannheimer. Mannheim has given me so much in the last 10 years. What I did was nothing in comparison,” he stated, emphasising that his actions were guided by his faith and a sense of duty toward his fellow human beings. As a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, he believes in peace and protecting others.
Mannheim’s Mayor, Christian Specht, commended Muhammad’s bravery, acknowledging how his intervention likely prevented more casualties. “You are a true Mannheimer,” Specht told him, expressing the city’s gratitude. Muhammad’s lawyer reiterated that stepping in to prevent harm was a natural instinct for him as a Muslim.
After the event, Muhammad experienced some health issues but is now recovering and hopes to resume his normal life as a taxi driver, serving the people of Mannheim. He also hopes his actions send a strong message against division and hate, reinforcing Mannheim’s values of tolerance and solidarity.
Widespread recognition and impact
Muhammad’s act of bravery has garnered nationwide attention. Major German media outlets, including Tagesschau, Bild, Welt, Spiegel, Stern TV, FAZ, ntv, Berliner Zeitung, RTL, Mannheim24, WDR, SWR, and taz, have reported on his courageous intervention, highlighting the importance of his actions in preventing further tragedy.
Muhammad’s bravery and selflessness come at a time when Germany has seen a rise in anti-Islamic sentiment. Recent attacks in Germany have stoked hate crimes against immigrants in the country, and since the Christmas attack in Magdeburg, “migrants in Magdeburg have allegedly been spat on, punched in the face, and in [one] case, sent to the hospital with loose teeth, migrant groups have reported.”
Germany has also seen greater support for its far-right party, the AfD. In its recent election, the country saw this party gain considerable support, pointing to a rise in anti-immigrant sentiments. Although the AfD strongly rejects any association with the Nazi past, it is under observation for suspected right-wing extremism.
In such a climate, Muhammad’s actions also have the potential to positively impact the image of migrants in general and Muslims in particular.
The Islamic principle of humanity
Muhammad’s pithy statement, “I am not a hero – I am a Muslim”, goes to show how Ahmadi Muslims embody the true teachings of Islam, which teach us love and care for others, regardless of who they are.
The Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, repeatedly urged his followers to be willing to serve mankind, emphasising it as a fundamental Islamic virtue. In this regard, he said:
“Everyone should study himself daily to see how far he cares for these matters and how far he sympathises with his brothers and shows them kindness. There is a great responsibility placed on man in this respect.” (Malfuzat [English], Vol. 7, p. 89)
The current Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, similarly states:
“Always remember that serving humanity is a core objective for a true Muslim, as Islam instructs us to serve those in need and to show sympathy and compassion for all mankind. It was to fulfil this great task that Allah the Almighty sent the Promised Messiahas.”