Tributes pour in for leading anti-drug campaigner Sam Pillay
Tributes are pouring
in for one Durban’s leading anti-drug campaigners. Activist, Sam
Pillay, died this morning from COVID-19 complications.
His death comes just two days after his wife, Indrani, succumbed to the respiratory disease.
The couple had been in hospital since the beginning of this month.
He worked as an educator before shifting his focus to fighting the scourge of drugs in Chatsworth and surrounds.
Over the years, Pillay worked closely with police to crackdown on drug dealers.
While he actively worked in schools to raise awareness around drugs.
Colleague - Shantal Bechoo- chief social worker at the Anti-Drug Forum, says Pillay epitomized passion.
“Sam has always been in the forefront of all community engagement. He has made meaningful impact on all forums he selflessly served on since a teenager since present.”
“His biggest accolade can be associated with the Ant-Drug Forum. The organization is solely his brainchild. He served as director and volunteer of the organization for fifteen years.”
Community activist, Visvin Reddy also paid his respects to Pillay.
“Unfortunately, COVID-19 is robbing us of people who are at the forefront of bringing about change in our community. Today we dip our banners as we bid farewell to a stalwart in the community of Chatsworth, Sam Pillay. Farewell my friend, until we meet again,” Reddy said.
Both Pillay and his wife will be laid to rest on Tuesday.
