In recognition of his years of service to IAATI and to the Southern African Branch, Tinus Odendal was honoured at our Orlando seminar with the Directors’ Award. A familiar face at most of our seminars, Tinus was unfortunately not able to attend. Accepting on his behalf was Gerald Davis, 2nd VP of his branch.

Tinus was instrumental in raising the profile of IAATI in his native South Africa and his presentation to the IAATI Board in 2008 led to the reinstatement of Southern African Branch. Tinus served as President of the Southern African Branch from 1995 to 1996 and was again elected President in 2008.

The award also took into consideration Tinus’ dedication to the vehicle theft investigation as a member of the South Africa Police Service. Tinus served with the SAPS from 1977 to 1997. Tinus’ rose
to the rank of Superintendent and during his distinguished career he served in varied investigative units with significant focus on motor vehicle theft and associated vehicle crime. Tinus retired from the SAPS 1998 and then went to work for Tracker.

Now after 12 years with Tracker, Tinus is moving on to other endeavours but hopes to remain active in IAATI as well with SAPS Reservists where he holds the rank of Colonel.