Orphans fund benefits slain officers’ families

JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – A total of over R1.5 million fund raised during a radiothon has seen the families of 40 police officers, slain in the line of duty, benefitting from the Widows and Orphans Fund.

“The project was launched in response to the escalating number of police killings and the need to provide some relief to the families of slain police officers. These officers made the ultimate sacrifice to serve and protect our communities. It was imperative to us that we acknowledge this sacrifice by also recognising the loss of the families and the severe financial strain of losing a breadwinner,” said Head of Crime Line Yusuf Abramjee, who added that although the money will never replace nor bring back the affected families loved ones, the intention was to offer support the families of our fallen heroes.

Inspired by Lead SA, Crime Line raised over R2.1-million for the fund during a radiothon hosted by Primedia Broadcasting’s four radio stations – Talk Radio 702, 567 Cape Talk, 94.7 Highveld Stereo and 94.5 Kfm – and the Independent Group of Newspapers.

The Widows and Orphans Fund indicated that the balance of the funds, which total over half a million rand, will continue to be paid out to the families of slain police officers.

Fund chairman, Lieutenant-General K. Craemer said: “We have agreed with the fund that the terms of our agreements will change slightly to include police officers who died in the line of duty from other causes, including motor vehicle accidents.”

The family of Constable Reservist Busisiwe Mehlwana is one of the beneficiaries. She was gunned down during an ATM bombing attack in Pimville, Soweto in July 2011. Money was also paid out to the family of Lieutenant-Colonel Mark Ishlove, who died during a shoot-out with a gang of robbers in Northcliff, Johannesburg in June 2011.