Lyttelton police drone pilot honoured for exemplary youth service
Martin van der Westhuizen became known as the 'Crush of the Nation' after a TikTok video went viral.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has recognised its young officers for remarkable contributions.
The recognition comes during this year’s Youth Month.
Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk said SAPS is proud to introduce young officers to the nation during Youth Month as examples of police members who go above and beyond the call of duty.
She said one of the officers being recognised is 33-year-old Constable Martin van der Westhuizen.
“Van der Westhuizen is a qualified police drone pilot stationed at the Lyttelton police station in Centurion,” she said.
After completing his matric in 2010, Van der Westhuizen pursued his childhood dream of becoming a police officer.
“He applied to join the service on numerous occasions before finally being enlisted in 2018,” she added.
Van Wyk said the young constable, who has over seven years of service, has earned two certificates of commendation from the National Commissioner, awarded in both 2019 and 2021 for exemplary service delivery.
“He gained national attention in July 2023 when a video of him, neatly dressed in uniform at a colleague’s funeral in Vosloorus, was shared on TikTok.”
She explained that a community member, who admired Van der Westhuizen’s conduct, posted the clip, which quickly went viral and earned him the nickname Crush of the Nation.
“When he’s not responding to complaints, detaining suspects or making arrests, Van der Westhuizen plays a key role in crime prevention operations by piloting a drone,” added Van Wyk.
Van der Westhuizen expressed his dedication to his role: “I don’t just wear my police uniform; it’s my mission to uphold the values behind it every single day.”
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