PHILIPSBURG--General police union NAPB is calling for a monument to be erected of slain bike patrol Police Officer Gamali “Benji “ Benjamin, who was shot while responding to a robbery on Front Street on Wednesday, August 5.
Benjamin succumbed to his wounds three days later at St. Maarten Medical Centre (SMMC). The monument was amongst several proposals the union has for authorities.
NAPB President Jeanine Peterson told The Daily Herald on Sunday that the union and its members are deeply saddened by Benjamin’s tragic passing.
She said too that a fund should be started for Benjamin’s minor son entitled “Zoontje van Benji.” The union suggested that NAf. 1 be deducted monthly from the salary of each Justice Ministry staffer and possibly from all ministries, to be placed in the fund for the officer’s son to collect when he reaches the age of 18. She said this had been done under the former Netherlands Antilles when officers died.
She said too that Benjamin should be accorded a state funeral and his funeral cost should be borne entirely by Government. “He put his life on the line for the community and he deserves a state funeral,” she said. “My colleague and NAPB member lost his life in the line of duty to protect Front Street and I think the community of St. Maarten should put their hands together for his funeral service.”
The union also suggested that the Ministry of Education cover the school fees of Benjamin’s son here in St. Maarten and abroad when he is ready to pursue tertiary studies. “His father was a brave police officer who lost his life in the line of duty,” Peterson said.
On behalf of the NAPB, Peterson extended deepest condolences to Benjamin’s wife, son, family, friends, colleagues, the public and the entire Police Force of St. Maarten. She said the union stands firm that his blood should not have been shed in vain.
