Kyle van Reenen from Sunningdale, Durban, who launched a Back-a-Buddy campaign with a modest goal of R5 000 to replace Warrant Officer Karl Sander’s personal coffee machine, has raised R686 063.

“Warrant Officer Sander is busy sorting out the finer details with Back-a-Buddy and working with his attorney to establish a trust fund. The legal professionals will ensure that everything is done correctly,” Van Reenen told Northglen News.

The campaign closed at the end of June and comes after Van Reenen wanted to show his support for the veteran police officer whose machine was stolen from his office.

The information came to light during the Madlanga Commission, when Sander said he was questioned as a suspect in the theft of his own property. According to The Citizen, Sander’s testimony was part of the commission’s inquiry into the high-profile theft of cocaine worth R200m, with witness testimony revealing internal tensions and disputed polygraph results.

The senior Hawks official was brought to tears when the polygraph test he was said to have failed was eventually deemed invalid.

“It was heartwarming to see so many people support the warrant officer. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the fundraiser,” added Van Reenen.

Funding canine training

Nothing has been finalised yet, but among the initiatives already identified is the sponsorship of two dogs for specialised narcotics-detection training.

Van Reenen previously said that having spent years working as a paramedic and in various roles across the private security and emergency services sectors, he has experienced the realities of life on the frontline.

“I have stood shoulder to shoulder with police officers, emergency personnel and first responders, witnessing the emotional and physical toll their work often takes,” he said.

And that’s the reason why Sander’s story struck such a deep chord with him.

“To many people, it sounded like a small story about a missing appliance but I know what that cup of coffee represents. It’s a small comfort during long shifts, a brief moment of calm after dealing with tragedy, violence, accidents and the countless pressures that come with serving the public,” added Van Reenen.

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