Prem Balram, head of Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), has been honoured with The Cross Award for Bravery for his work involving missing persons, vulnerable children, and rescue operations in KwaZulu-Natal. The award was presented at the DSK Groups gender-based violence gala on Saturday. Balram was recognised for his instrumental role in cases involving babies, missing persons, and other rescue operations during 2026.
The organisation hailed Balram for the remarkable work he has done for the community, particularly in bringing attention to cases that often remain unreported, giving a voice to vulnerable people, and leading rescue and lifesaving missions. KZN premier, Thami Ntuli, commended the first responders and other role players during his address at the gala dinner. Other honourees at the event included Dr Imtiaz Sooliman of Gift of the Givers and Vivian Reddy, Chairman of Sibaya Precinct.
Between November 2025 and November 2026, RUSA responded to 18,500 calls for assistance. Balram said the recognition was for his work assisting vulnerable people and leading rescue operations, particularly those involving missing persons, children, and individuals in life-threatening situations. He said he was deeply honoured and humbled at receiving the honour for a second year in a row.
Roshan Lil-Ruthan, chairperson of the Verulam Business Forum (VBF), congratulated Balram and the team on receiving the prestigious Cross Award for Bravery. Lil-Ruthan said the award was a fitting recognition of the extraordinary dedication, courage, and compassion that Balram and his team demonstrate every day in service to their communities.
Vish Roopnarain, chairperson of Verulam Civic Organisation, saluted Balram for his outstanding work in the community and surrounding areas. Roopnarain said many lives, including those of children and adults, have been saved by Balram and RUSA. Balram, together with his late father and brother, started RUSA in Verulam 30 years ago.
Rachel Wilkin, chairperson of the Verulam Community Police Forum (CPF), acknowledged the recognition Balram received from the DSK Foundation, an NPO supporting abused and vulnerable women, children, and men. Wilkin said effective protection requires collaboration among government, SAPS, designated child protection organisations, private security providers, and communities.
The Verulam CPF believes this collaborative partnership strengthens their shared ability to uphold the rights, dignity, safety, and best interests of vulnerable children, as envisaged by relevant legislation. Balram said he will continue to dedicate much of his life to helping people in distress, regardless of the risks involved, as a helicopter pilot and head of RUSA.
Key points
- Prem Balram received The Cross Award for Bravery for his work with RUSA.
- RUSA responded to 18,500 calls for assistance between November 2025 and November 2026.
- The award recognises Balram's role in cases involving missing persons, vulnerable children, and rescue operations.
