CUL DE SAC--Police Officer Moceda Deann Egen received a state funeral on Monday by the Police Force of St. Maarten.
Family members and loved ones accompanied the procession to the Philipsburg police station where it stopped briefly. Chief of Police Carl John, police spokesman Chief Inspector Ricardo Henson and the rest of the management team met family members and guided them inside to place the portrait of Egen, who lost her battle with cancer on Saturday, November 14.
The police organised a uniformed honour guard for Egen and after spending 20 minutes at the station the procession was escorted to Good News Baptist Church in St. Peters where the body was viewed and a church service took place. A uniformed procession of police and Voluntary Corps VKS officers marched on L.B. Scott Road to the Cul de Sac cemetery where Egen was laid to rest.
Gamali Benjamin Foundation (GBF) stated in a press release after the Egen’s funeral services, “It seems that this year our Police Force has been affected yet again by the recent passing of Officer Moceda Egen. We extend our sincere condolences to the families, colleagues and friends through this time of bereavement, of this young dynamic lady who had a great future ahead in wanting to serve and protect. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
“We remain vigilant to the ongoing case concerning their fallen hero Officer Gamali Benjamin. We would like to thank our men and women in blue for working tirelessly, not only on this specific case, but to ensure that the persons responsible will be brought to justice.
“We are now faced with the saddened news of Officer Vernon Ranis who was severely injured involving an accident on L.B. Scott Road. The injuries to his foot as was stated were severe and we join with the community in wishing him a speedy recovery as he receives all medical attention needed.
“In spite of all the negativity surrounding our local Police Force, on a more positive note we hereby extend sincere congratulations to our Chief of Police Carl John. His dedication and hard work over the years have proven [that in – Ed.] this position … he will continue to ensure that our streets are safe once again for the people of this country and visitors to our shores.”
Gamali Benjamin Foundation was created in honour and in memory of the late Police Officer Gamali Benjamin. It focuses on assisting in the future education of his son and other children who may fall victim to such unfortunate tragedies in the Police Force. The foundation consists of board members Nikhil Kukreja, Ellinger Paul, Alston Lourens, Rensley Henson and Marinka Gumbs.
Police bid farewell to Officer Moceda Egen
