Umhlali cop top of the pops

If you have never met Umhlali SAPS’ resident supercop captain Vinny Pillay, then you have yet to discover the golden standard that all police should strive to meet.

Captain Pillay is one of those rare public servants who truly cares about his work.

His willingness to go the extra mile has seen him shortlisted as one of a handful of finalists among thousands of nominations in the international Integrity Idol campaign.

Pillay was originally one of 4000 nominees and has since made it to the final five.

Voting for the winner will begin in May (the Courier will carry details once it is time to start voting).

Also read: Bringing dignity to trauma victims

Whether it be chasing down criminals, coordinating investigations, liaising with the media, going on patrols, talking with victims’ families, giving wheelchairs to disabled children or working – on his own time – to erect a trauma center at the station, nothing is too much trouble for Pillay.

“I became a policeman because I always wanted to work in – and with – the community,” said the 47-year-old father of one.

“My brother Basil was a policeman and as a child I would watch him and the other officers at work, thinking what heroes they were. He is probably the main reason I joined the service.”
Pillay said he loved everything about his job.

“The team spirit in the station and between security companies and the help and support from the community keeps me going.”

At first he did not take the nomination too seriously.

“When I realised what a big deal it was I was taken completely by surprise. I want to thank the person who nominated me, it means a lot to know the people we serve appreciate our efforts.”

Integrity Idol is a global campaign run by citizens in search of honest government officials. It aims to generate debate around the idea of integrity and demonstrate the importance of honesty and personal responsibility.

“Captain Vinny Pillay is an absolute gentleman and a man truly committed to serving his community, he is a credit to SAPS,” said Gary Frances of the Ballito Neighbourhood Watch.
Ward 22 councilor Malcolm Hubner described Pillay as a fantastic public servant.

“Captain Pillay richly deserves this recognition for all the hard work he does. He is always ready to serve.”

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