Sunningdale resident Kyle van Reenen who launched a BackaBuddy campaign with a modest goal of R5000, to replace the personal coffee machine of Warrant Officer Karl Sander, has raised  R686 063.

Related story: Video: A cup of coffee and a country’s compassion

“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,” said Van Reenen.

The campaign closed at the end of June and comes after Van Reenen wanted to show his support for the 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. The senior Hawks official was brought to tears when the polygraph test he was said to have failed, was 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.

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

For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook ,X or  Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here