A man was injured after attempting to take his own life by jumping from the upper floors of Masjid al-Haram, Islam’s holiest site, in Saudi Arabia’s Makkah, authorities confirmed on Friday. A security officer stationed at the Grand Mosque sustained fractures while trying to break the man’s fall and prevent him from hitting the ground

According to the Emirate of the Makkah Region, the incident took place on Thursday when the individual moved towards the edge of an upper level of the Grand Mosque. Personnel from the Special Force for the Security of the Grand Mosque immediately intervened after noticing the situation.

Swift Response By Haram Security Forces

In an official statement, authorities said a security officer was injured during the intervention while attempting to stop the man from crashing to the ground at the moment of his fall. Both the man and the injured officer were promptly transferred to hospital for medical treatment.

“The officer’s injury was limited to fractures, and the required official and legal procedures were completed in accordance with applicable regulations,” the Emirate of the Makkah Region said. Officials did not disclose further details regarding the identity or current medical condition of the man.

Footage of the incident, which later circulated widely on social media platforms, showed the man approaching the edge of the upper floor before jumping. Security personnel rushed in within seconds, and a guard positioned below attempted to break the fall, resulting in injuries to both individuals. 

Commenting on the incident, the Chief Imam of the Grand Mosque, Sheikh Dr Abdur Rahman As Sudais, urged visitors and pilgrims to adhere strictly to regulations and respect the sanctity of Masjid al-Haram. He called upon worshippers to maintain proper Islamic conduct and devote themselves to prayer and obedience.

He also warned against attempts by a small number of individuals to jump from elevated areas within the mosque complex, stressing that such acts amount to suicide, which is strictly prohibited under Islamic law. Emphasising the sanctity of life, he reminded worshippers that preservation of life is a fundamental principle in Islam.

Legal Procedures Underway, Security Tightened

The Saudi Ministry of Interior said specialised security units stationed at the Grand Mosque acted swiftly to contain the situation and ensure the safety of thousands of worshippers present at the time. Authorities confirmed that legal procedures are being completed as per Saudi regulations.

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Masjid al-Haram remains under continuous surveillance, with trained emergency response teams deployed around the clock to manage public safety at one of the most visited religious sites in the world.

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Similar incidents have been reported in previous years.In 2017, a man died after jumping from an upper level near the Kaaba during prayers. Authorities have since enhanced monitoring and emergency response measures to prevent such occurrences.