South African Police

Remembering Border Veteran Sergeant Kay Chutterpaul

Abstract

This tribute honours Sergeant Kay Chutterpaul as a principled, humble, and compassionate police officer whose unwavering dedication marked his service during the turbulent 1970s. Known for his respectful demeanour, tireless work ethic, and refusal to use harsh language, he exemplified quiet strength and integrity. Despite limited resources and the absence of a permanent riot unit, he consistently went beyond the call of duty — even using his private vehicle to ensure justice was served. His legacy is one of selflessness, discipline, and deep humanity.

SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE

REMEMBERING BORDER VETERAN SERGEANT KAY CHUTTERPAUL

A FRIEND AND FORMER COLLEAGUE WITH LOVE AND RESPECT

By Col Logan Govender

Sergeant Kay Chutterpaul

Researched, authored compiled, edited, and submitted for publication by Logan Govender [LG], drawing on information provided by his son Mr Hemen Chutterpaul, as well as various sources, police personnel, and other contributors.

[LG]

“The Nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten” – Calvin Coolidge

Sergeant (Kay) Karumunand Chutterpaul was born in the humble community of Edendale, on 1940-06-17. He enlisted into the South African Police in 1966 and dedicated his life to serving his community.

On 01^st Oct 1966 he reported to The South African Police, Indian Training Depot, in Wentworth, for basic Police training and was in Platoon 8 of 1967.  He completed his basic police training on 1967-03-31.

South African Police

Indian Training College

Wentworth

Durban

Platoon 8, 1967

Members Identified

3^rd row, L-R, Adams (Captain), 3rd; Late, Saravana (SM Govender), (Captain), 10th (2nd from right); 11^th Sagathevan, Captain (Derrick)

4^th row, L-R, 5th, Late, Kurmunundh (K Chutterpaul), (Sergeant); 7th, Mogambery (Bob Govender), (Captain)

During 1973 attended a Counter Insurgency Course at Maloeskop, Grobblersdaal.

Shortly after, he was detached to Namibia (former South West Africa) for six months to combat cross border insurgents from entering into South Africa.

He thereafter performed a few stints within the South African Borders.

Sergeant Kay Chutterpaul, extreme left in the front

Sergeant Kay Chutterpaul extreme right, rear row

For 37 years, he wore the SAP uniform with pride. Through long nights on patrol, difficult investigations, and countless lives touched by his kindness, Sergeant Chutterpaul remained the very definition of a faithful servant.

I had the privilege of beginning my police career alongside Sergeant Kay Chutterpaul, a man whose presence left a lasting impression on everyone serving with him. From the very beginning, he was firm yet fair, disciplined yet deeply compassionate. He led by example, earning respect from everyone. Despite any person’s creed, colour, or background, Sergeant Chutterpaul treated everyone with dignity and respect.

Captain Bob Sewpersad

I will always remember the influence of the late Captain Bob Sewpersad, may his soul RIP, who initiated a touching tradition by joining members and their families at the Pietermaritzburg main railway station as they departed for border duties. Those were difficult times; the situation was often volatile, and our members faced harsh conditions far from home. There was always uncertainty as to who would return, who might be injured, or sadly, would not make it back. Captain Sewpersad’s compassion in those moments showed the human side of his nature and the bond that held members together. When I later assumed command of the station after his retirement, I made it my duty to continue that gesture, inspired by his kindness and understanding.

I had the privilege and honour of bidding farewell to Sergeant Chutterpaul on two such occasions, these moments that reminded me how truly special he was. His dedication to duty, loyalty to his comrades, and love for his country never wavered. He carried himself with quiet strength and humility, inspiring those around him to give their best. He was a man of deep character and compassion.

As we bid him farewell one last time, we celebrate a life of service, sacrifice, and integrity. Sergeant Chutterpaul, thank you for the example you set, the lives you touched, and the legacy you leave behind. You served with honour. I salute you, Sir !

The following decorations and medals awarded to Sergeant Chutterpaul, bears testimony of his exemplary conduct in the performance of his police functions.

1. The South African Police Border Medal and two clasps;
2. The South African Police Seventy Fifth Anniversary Commemorative Medal;
3. The South African Police Amalgamation Medal;
4. The South African Police Service Thirty Year Loyal Service Medal;
5. The South African Police Service Twenty Year Loyal Service Medal;
6. The South African Police Service Ten Year Loyal Service Medal;

He retired in 1995 after having served the South African Police and its Communities faithfully and loyally for 30years.

“Sergeant Kay Chutterpaul was a disciplined and upright man, honest. Though he could be strict when it demanded but he remained humble, gentle, and deeply respectful towards everyone he encountered. A truly kind-hearted soul, he always went out of his way to assist others and never once used foul language or spoke harshly.

During our time together working on enquiry dockets and serving in the riot unit back in 1976, he was dedicated. In those days, there was no permanent riot unit; we trained once a month and were called up whenever duty required. He did his best under the circumstances. I recall how he would suggest we start work in the early hours of the morning to trace the people we were looking for to enable us to get the job done.

Resources were limited in those years, but didn’t deter him. When no state vehicles were available, he would often use his private car to ensure our duties were carried out without delay. That was the measure of his character selfless, dependable, and deeply dedicated to his work.” – Lieutenant-Colonel (Pipes) Yusuf Haffajee

“Sergeant Kay Chutterpaul served with distinction at Mountain Rise Police Station from December 1989 until his retirement, first with the enquiry staff and later as a court orderly. Throughout his service, he was known for his simplicity, fairness, and unwavering integrity.

He will be remembered as a disciplined member but kind, firm and compassionate. He and led by example. May his noble soul rest in eternal peace. He will be remembered for his simplicity and fairness. May his soul rest in peace.” – Brigadier Hari Badul

“agnoscere et honorare servientibus” –

“to acknowledge and honour those who served”

“Soli Deo Gloria” – “To God Alone Glory”

Logan Govender