After an accident left him in a wheelchair, a resident of Atyrau region has been assisting the police for five years.

A man in a wheelchair has been assisting police in maintaining public order for over five years, reports IA "NewTimes.kz" citing Polisia.kz.

Esbolat Balabaev, a resident of the Atyrau region, has been recognized by the police as Volunteer of the Year. The region's chief police officer, Nurkhat Urazbaev, expressed gratitude to the compassionate local resident for his active involvement in law enforcement matters.

“Fifteen years ago, Esbolat Balabaev was involved in an accident that left him confined to a wheelchair. After enduring a challenging rehabilitation journey, he began assisting the police in preventing traffic accidents. He hopes that his tragic experience will help warn as many people as possible to avoid a similar fate,” the police shared.

Esbolat participates in preventive activities, conducting educational outreach with drivers and reminding them of the importance of adhering to traffic rules. Additionally, he visits hospitals to provide moral support to victims of traffic accidents, inspiring them to recover and start anew. Esbolat also actively promotes a healthy lifestyle among people with disabilities, encouraging them to engage in sports and remain hopeful.

In recognition of his active civic stance, courage, and will to live, Nurkhat Urazbaev personally met with Esbolat Balabaev to express deep appreciation for his invaluable contribution to public safety and preventive efforts.

Earlier, a truck driver was sentenced in Aktobe for causing the deaths of five schoolchildren and three adults.