Recovering from a heart operation, Umhlali Saps’ Captain Pillay will soon return to work
Although Captain Pillay said this had been a huge shock, he was grateful that it was picked up. He was recovering well and is set to return to duty on October 1.
Umhlali Saps has been missing a part of its furniture since May this year when the station’s spokesperson Captain Vinny Pillay was rushed to hospital for a heart operation.
No stranger to locals, Captain Pillay has for years been involved in many community projects aimed at uplifting those most in need.
From being dubbed South Africa’s first integrity idol in the 2018 Integrity Idol South Africa competition to launching the Umhlali Saps Victim Support Unit, Captain Pillay has a knack for being the change he wants to see.
But things took a drastic turn earlier this year when he visited his doctor for an annual examination.
“My doctor suggested I have an angiogram done. This revealed three severe blockages in my arteries meaning I had to undergo immediate triple heart bypass surgery,” he said.
Although Captain Pillay said this had been a huge shock, he was grateful that it was picked up. He was recovering well and is set to return to duty on October 1.
Speaking on his early years, Captain Pillay said he was raised on a farm and soon recognised the importance of helping others.
“When I joined the police force, it created an avenue for me to assist the wider community. It also brings me joy to know that I am making a positive difference in the lives of so many people. The unwavering support of my community also encourages and assists me in fulfilling my duties to the best of my abilities,” he said.
Also serving as the social crime prevention commander, Captain Pillay works hand-in-hand with community leaders on a daily basis to ensure the safety of locals.
Further, he assists with school safety programmes, community outreach and farm watch operation policing.
He has served the Saps for the past 27 years.
At home, Captain Pillay is a family man who tries to spend as much time as possible with his wife and son.
His son, Reshaylin, is in matric at Crawford North Coast.
When not out with the family or at his desk, Captain Pillay often enjoys gardening.
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